U.S. patent application number 17/012011 was filed with the patent office on 2020-12-24 for watercraft device with hydrofoil and electric propeller system.
This patent application is currently assigned to Kai Concepts, LLC. The applicant listed for this patent is Kai Concepts, LLC. Invention is credited to Joseph Andrew Brock, Donald Lewis Montague, Daniel Elliot Schabb, Jamieson Edward Schulte.
Application Number | 20200398938 17/012011 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000005076714 |
Filed Date | 2020-12-24 |
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United States Patent
Application |
20200398938 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Montague; Donald Lewis ; et
al. |
December 24, 2020 |
WATERCRAFT DEVICE WITH HYDROFOIL AND ELECTRIC PROPELLER SYSTEM
Abstract
A modular, weight-shift controlled watercraft device is
disclosed which includes: a modular board removably attachable to a
power system. The power system includes a modular power supply
system, and a modular propulsion system. The power supply system
includes a housing including a battery. The propulsion system
includes a modular strut, a modular propulsion pod, and a modular
hydrofoil. In one embodiment, the power supply system is removably
and mechanically attachable directly to the propulsion system.
Inventors: |
Montague; Donald Lewis;
(Alameda, CA) ; Brock; Joseph Andrew; (Alameda,
CA) ; Schulte; Jamieson Edward; (Alameda, CA)
; Schabb; Daniel Elliot; (Alameda, CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Kai Concepts, LLC |
Alameda |
CA |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
Kai Concepts, LLC
Alameda
CA
|
Family ID: |
1000005076714 |
Appl. No.: |
17/012011 |
Filed: |
September 3, 2020 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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16543447 |
Aug 16, 2019 |
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17012011 |
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15700658 |
Sep 11, 2017 |
10597118 |
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16543447 |
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62393580 |
Sep 12, 2016 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B63B 32/60 20200201;
B63H 5/07 20130101; B63H 21/213 20130101; B63H 21/17 20130101; B63B
32/10 20200201; B63H 2005/075 20130101; B63H 1/22 20130101; B63B
1/246 20130101 |
International
Class: |
B63B 1/24 20060101
B63B001/24; B63H 21/21 20060101 B63H021/21; B63H 1/22 20060101
B63H001/22; B63H 21/17 20060101 B63H021/17; B63H 5/07 20060101
B63H005/07; B63B 32/10 20060101 B63B032/10; B63B 32/60 20060101
B63B032/60 |
Claims
1. A modular, weight-shift controlled watercraft device,
comprising: a modular board removably attached to a power system;
the power system including a modular power supply system, and a
modular propulsion system; the power supply system including a
first battery; the propulsion system including a modular strut, a
modular propulsion pod, and a modular hydrofoil; wherein the strut
includes a first end and a second end, and includes a strut body
disposed between the first end and second end; wherein the board is
removably attached to the first end of the strut; wherein the
hydrofoil is removably attached to the strut body at a first
location; wherein the propulsion pod is removably attached to the
strut body at a second location interposed between the first end of
the strut and the first location; wherein the power supply system
includes a first tray housing the first battery; wherein the first
tray is removably attachable directly to the first end of the
strut; wherein a first portion of the strut body is interposed
between the first end of the strut and the propulsion pod; and
wherein a second portion of the strut body is interposed between
the propulsion pod and the hydrofoil.
2. The watercraft device of claim 1 wherein the power supply system
is removably attachable directly to the strut of the propulsion
system independent of any coupling to the board.
3. The watercraft device of claim 1: wherein the power supply
system includes a first tray housing the first battery; wherein the
first tray and the first battery are coupled to each other to form
an integral modular unit; and wherein the integral modular unit is
removably attachable directly to the first end of the strut.
4. The watercraft device of claim 1: wherein the propulsion pod is
removably attachable directly to the strut body; and wherein the
hydrofoil is removably attachable directly to the strut body.
5. The watercraft device of claim 1: wherein the power supply
system is removably housed within a well of the board; and wherein
the power supply system includes a top surface forming an upper
surface portion of the board.
6. The watercraft device of claim 1 being configured or designed to
enable an operator of the watercraft device to steer the watercraft
device solely via weight-shift movements of the operator.
7. The watercraft device of claim 1 further comprising: a wireless
throttle controller, the throttle controller including a first
input interface configured to receive input from an operator of the
watercraft device, the throttle controller being configured to
provide a first wireless control signal in response to first input
received via the first input interface; a drive system of the
propulsion pod that includes an electric motor, a motor controller,
a propeller, and a second input interface configured to receive at
least one wireless control signal generated by the throttle
controller; and wherein the drive system is configured to
dynamically alter an output of the electric motor in response
receiving at least one control signal generated by the throttle
controller.
8. The watercraft device of claim 1 wherein the board is removably
attachable to the propulsion system.
9. The watercraft device of claim 1 wherein the board is removably
attachable to the strut.
10. The watercraft device of claim 1 wherein the board is removably
attachable to the power supply system.
11. The watercraft device of claim 1 wherein the hydrofoil includes
a fuselage and at least one wing attached to the fuselage, and
wherein the fuselage is removably attached to the strut.
12. The watercraft device of claim 1 wherein the hydrofoil includes
a fuselage and at least one wing attached to the fuselage, and
wherein the fuselage is removably attached to the second end of the
strut.
13. The watercraft device of claim 1: wherein the first battery is
electrically coupled to the propulsion pod via at least one
electrical conduit; wherein the propulsion pod includes an electric
motor and a propeller physically attached to the electric motor;
wherein the power supply system includes a motor controller, the
motor controller being electrically coupled to the electric motor
via the at least one electrical conduit; wherein the power supply
system is removably housed within a well of the board; and wherein
the power supply system includes a top surface forming an upper
surface portion of the board.
14. The watercraft device of claim 1: wherein the first battery is
electrically coupled to the propulsion pod via at least one
electrical conduit; and wherein the propulsion pod includes an
electric motor, a motor controller electrically coupled to the
electric motor, and a propeller physically attached to the electric
motor.
15. The watercraft device of claim 1 further comprising: a wireless
throttle controller, the throttle controller including a first
input interface configured to receive input from an operator of the
watercraft device, the throttle controller being configured to
provide a first wireless control signal in response to first input
received via the first input interface; a drive system of the
propulsion pod that includes an electric motor, a motor controller,
a foldable propeller, and a second input interface configured to
receive at least one wireless control signal generated by the
throttle controller; and wherein the foldable propeller is
responsive to a second wireless control signal generated by the
wireless throttle controller for causing the foldable propeller to
be in an unfolded position, and wherein the foldable propeller is
further responsive to a third wireless control signal generated by
the wireless throttle controller for causing the foldable propeller
to be in a folded position.
16. The watercraft device of claim 1 further comprising: a ride
height sensor system including a first water pressure sensor; and
the ride height sensor system being configured or designed to
determine a height of the board relative to a top surface of water
in which the watercraft device is deployed.
17. The watercraft device of claim 1 further comprising: a ride
height sensor system including a first water pressure sensor; The
ride height sensor system being configured to designed to determine
a depth of at least one component of the propulsion pod.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application is a continuation application, pursuant to
the provisions of 35 U.S.C. .sctn. 120, of prior U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 16/543,447 (Attorney Docket No. KAIP001C1)
titled "WATERCRAFT DEVICE WITH HYDROFOIL AND ELECTRIC PROPELLER
SYSTEM" by Montague et al., filed on 16 Aug. 2019, the entirety of
which is incorporated herein by reference for all purposes.
[0002] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/543,447 is a
continuation application, pursuant to the provisions of 35 U.S.C.
.sctn. 120, of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/700,658
(Attorney Docket No. KAIP001) titled "WATERCRAFT DEVICE WITH
HYDROFOIL AND ELECTRIC PROPELLER SYSTEM" by Montague et al., filed
on 11 Sep. 2017, the entirety of which is incorporated herein by
reference for all purposes.
[0003] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/700,658 claims benefit
under 35 USC 119(e) of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No.
62/393,580, filed on Sep. 12, 2016, entitled "JETFOILER," which is
incorporated herein by referenced in its entirety.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0004] This application relates to watercraft devices that include
hydrofoils and that are powered using electric propeller
systems.
BACKGROUND
[0005] There are boards with hydrofoils (or foils) for use with
kites, paddles, and windsurf rigs. There are electric and
gas-powered boards without foils. U.S. Pat. No. 7,047,901 discloses
a motorized hydrofoil device. U.S. Pat. No. 9,278,729 discloses a
weight-shift controlled personal hydrofoil watercraft. The
disclosures of the above identified patent documents are hereby
incorporated herein by reference.
SUMMARY
[0006] Disclosed herein are aspects, features, elements,
implementations, and implementations for providing watercraft
devices that include hydrofoils and that are powered using electric
propeller systems.
[0007] In an implementation, a watercraft device is disclosed. The
watercraft device comprises a board, a throttle coupled to a top
surface of the board, a hydrofoil coupled to a bottom surface of
the board, and an electric propeller system coupled to the
hydrofoil, wherein the electric propeller system powers the
watercraft device using information generated from the throttle,
further wherein a center of buoyancy in a non-foiling mode and a
center of lift in a foiling mode are aligned.
[0008] One aspect disclosed herein is directed to a modular,
weight-shift controlled watercraft device, comprising: a modular
board removably attachable to a power system; the power system
including a modular power supply system, and a modular propulsion
system; the power supply system including a housing, the housing
including a first battery; the propulsion system including a
modular strut, a modular propulsion pod, and a modular hydrofoil;
wherein the propulsion pod is removably attachable to the strut;
wherein the hydrofoil is removably attachable to the strut; and
wherein the power supply system is removably and mechanically
attachable directly to the propulsion system.
[0009] Another aspect disclosed herein is directed to a modular,
weight-shift controlled watercraft device, comprising: a modular
board removably attachable to a power system; the power system
including a modular power supply system, and a modular propulsion
system; the power supply system including a housing, the housing
including a first battery; the propulsion system including a
modular strut, a modular propulsion pod, and a modular hydrofoil;
wherein the propulsion pod is removably attachable to the strut;
wherein the strut includes a first end portion, a second end
portion, and a strut body disposed between the first end portion
and second end portion; wherein the board is removably attachable
to the first end portion of the strut; wherein the hydrofoil is
attachable to the strut at a first location; and wherein the
propulsion pod is attachable to the strut at a second location
interposed between the first end portion and the first
location.
[0010] In at least one embodiment, the power supply system is
removably attachable directly to the strut of the propulsion
system. In at least one embodiment, the power supply system is
removably attachable directly to the strut of the propulsion system
independent of any coupling to the board.
[0011] In at least one embodiment, the housing and the first
battery are coupled to each other to form an integral modular unit;
and the integral modular unit is removably attachable directly to
the strut of the propulsion system.
[0012] In at least one embodiment, the propulsion pod is removably
attachable directly to the strut; and the hydrofoil is removably
attachable directly to the strut.
[0013] In at least one embodiment, the power supply system is
removably housed within a well of the board; and the power supply
system includes a top surface forming an upper surface portion of
the board.
[0014] In at least one embodiment, the strut includes a first end
portion, a second end portion, and a strut body disposed between
the first end portion and second end portion; the board is
attachable to the first end portion of the strut; the hydrofoil is
attachable to the strut at a first location; and the propulsion pod
is attachable to the strut at a second location interposed between
the first end portion and the first location.
[0015] In at least one embodiment, the watercraft device is
configured or designed to provide a weigh-shift controlled steering
mechanism which enables an operator of the watercraft device to
steer the watercraft device solely via weight-shift of the
operator.
[0016] In at least one embodiment, watercraft device further
comprises: a wireless throttle controller, the throttle controller
including a first input interface configured to receive input from
an operator of the watercraft device, the throttle controller being
configured to provide a first wireless control signal in response
to first input received via the first input interface; a drive
system that includes an electric motor, a motor controller, a
propeller, and a second input interface configured to receive at
least one wireless control signal generated by the throttle
controller; and the drive system is configured to dynamically alter
an output of the electric motor in response receiving at least one
control signal generated by the throttle controller.
[0017] In at least one embodiment, the board is removably
attachable to the propulsion system. In at least one embodiment,
the board is removably attachable to the strut. In at least one
embodiment, the board is removably attachable to the power supply
system.
[0018] In at least one embodiment, the hydrofoil includes a
fuselage and at least one wing attachable to the fuselage, and the
fuselage is removably attachable to the strut.
[0019] In at least one embodiment, watercraft device further
comprises: a wireless throttle controller, the throttle controller
including a first input interface configured to receive input from
an operator of the watercraft device, the throttle controller being
configured to provide a first wireless control signal in response
to first input received via the first input interface; a drive
system that includes an electric motor, a motor controller, a
foldable propeller, and a second input interface configured to
receive at least one wireless control signal generated by the
throttle controller; and wherein the foldable propeller is
responsive to a second wireless control signal generated by the
wireless throttle controller for causing the foldable propeller to
be in an unfolded position, and wherein the foldable propeller is
further responsive to a third wireless control signal generated by
the wireless throttle controller for causing the foldable propeller
to be in a folded position.
[0020] In at least one embodiment, watercraft device further
comprises: a ride height sensor system including a ride height
sensor attachable to the propulsion system; and the ride height
sensor system being configured to determine a distance between a
bottom surface of the board and a top surface of water in which the
watercraft device is deployed.
[0021] In at least one embodiment, at least one electrical conduit
electrically coupled to the first battery and the propulsion pod,
wherein the first battery is electrically coupled to the propulsion
pod via the at least one electrical conduit; wherein the board
includes a board body having an exterior surface defining a board
body interior; and wherein an entirety of the board body interior
is devoid of the at least one electrical conduit.
[0022] In at least one embodiment, the first battery is
electrically coupled to the propulsion pod via at least one
electrical conduit; the propulsion pod includes an electric motor
and a propeller physically attachable to the electric motor; the
power supply system includes a motor controller, the motor
controller being electrically coupled to the electric motor via the
at least one electrical conduit; the power supply system is
removably housed within a well of the board; and the power supply
system includes a top surface forming an upper surface portion of
the board.
[0023] In at least one embodiment, the first battery is
electrically coupled to the propulsion pod via at least one
electrical conduit; and the propulsion pod includes an electric
motor, a motor controller electrically coupled to the electric
motor, and a propeller physically attachable to the electric
motor.
[0024] These and other aspects of the present disclosure are
disclosed in the following detailed description of the embodiments,
the appended claims and the accompanying figures.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0025] The disclosed technology is best understood from the
following detailed description when read in conjunction with the
accompanying drawings. It is emphasized that, according to common
practice, the various features of the drawings are not to-scale. On
the contrary, the dimensions of the various features are
arbitrarily expanded or reduced for clarity.
[0026] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of a portion of a jetfoiler in
accordance with implementations of the present disclosure.
[0027] FIG. 2 illustrates a top view of an example of a board of a
jetfoiler in accordance with implementations of the present
disclosure.
[0028] FIG. 3 illustrates a side view of an example of a jetfoiler
in accordance with implementations of the present disclosure.
[0029] FIG. 4 illustrates a top view of an example of a board of a
jetfoiler in accordance with implementations of the present
disclosure.
[0030] FIG. 5 illustrates an example of a first well within a board
of a jetfoiler in accordance with implementations of the present
disclosure.
[0031] FIG. 6 illustrates an example of a second well within a
board of a jetfoiler in accordance with implementations of the
present disclosure.
[0032] FIG. 7A illustrates a top view of an example of a jetfoiler
with an inflatable board in accordance with implementations of the
present disclosure.
[0033] FIG. 7B illustrates an example of a hydrofoil power system
of a jetfoiler with an inflatable board in accordance with
implementations of the present disclosure.
[0034] FIG. 8 illustrates an example of a jetfoiler with a wheeled
board in accordance with implementations of the present
disclosure.
[0035] FIG. 9 illustrates an example of a jetfoiler controlled
using a throttle system in accordance with implementations of the
present disclosure.
[0036] FIG. 10A illustrates an example of a jetfoiler controlled
using a handlebar throttle in a first position in accordance with
implementations of the present disclosure.
[0037] FIG. 10B illustrates an example of a jetfoiler controlled
using a handlebar throttle in a second position in accordance with
implementations of the present disclosure.
[0038] FIG. 11 illustrates an example of a hydrofoil of a jetfoiler
in accordance with implementations of the present disclosure.
[0039] FIG. 12 illustrates an example of a hydrofoil of a jetfoiler
in accordance with implementations of the present disclosure.
[0040] FIG. 13 illustrates an example of a propulsion pod of a
jetfoiler in accordance with implementations of the present
disclosure.
[0041] FIG. 14 illustrates an example of an optimized propulsion
pod shape in accordance with implementations of the present
disclosure.
[0042] FIG. 15A illustrates an example of a power system of a
jetfoiler in accordance with implementations of the present
disclosure.
[0043] FIG. 15B illustrates an example of a motor system of a power
system of a jetfoiler in accordance with implementations of the
present disclosure.
[0044] FIG. 15C illustrates an example of a battery system of a
motor system in accordance with implementations of the present
disclosure.
[0045] FIG. 16 illustrates a propeller system of a jetfoiler in
accordance with implementations of the present disclosure.
[0046] FIG. 17 illustrates an example of matching propeller
spinning directions with rider stance during operation of a
jetfoiler in accordance with implementations of the present
disclosure.
[0047] FIG. 18 illustrates an example of a folding propeller blades
of propeller system of a jetfoiler in accordance with
implementations of the present disclosure.
[0048] FIG. 19 illustrates an example of a hydrofoil of a jetfoiler
that includes a moveable control surface in accordance with
implementations of the present disclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0049] The following description and drawings are illustrative and
are not to be construed as limiting. Numerous specific details are
described to provide a thorough understanding. However, in certain
instances, well known or conventional details are not described in
order to avoid obscuring the description. References to one or an
embodiment in the present disclosure are not necessarily references
to the same embodiment; and, such references mean at least one.
[0050] A foilboard (also referred to as a foiling device or a
hydrofoil board/device) is a watercraft device that includes a
surfboard (also referred to as a board) and a hydrofoil that is
coupled to the board and that extends below the board into the
water during operation. The hydrofoil generates lift, which causes
the board to rise above a surface of a body of water at higher
speeds. The present disclosure provides jetfoilers which represent
a watercraft device that includes a hydrofoil board (i.e., a board
with a hydrofoil coupled beneath the board's surface) and an
electric propeller system (i.e., a propeller system powered using
an electric motor) that powers the watercraft device. The
jetfoilers can also be referred to as electric hydrofoil devices.
The jetfoilers introduce hydrofoil sports to a wide audience by
providing a quiet alternative to gas-powered personal watercraft, a
more efficient no-wake alternative to non-foiling craft, and/or a
no-wind or low-wind option for individuals to use hydrofoil devices
for recreation. Accordingly, a method and system in accordance with
the present disclosure provides a jetfoiler that comprises a board,
a hydrofoil coupled to the board, and an electric propeller system
coupled to the hydrofoil for powering the jetfoiler. The hydrofoil
may be detached from the board using a quick release when not in
use to allow the operator to store or move the jetfoiler more
easily. An operator of the jetfoiler can use weight-shifting or
another mechanism using a controller to control both a speed and a
direction of the jetfoiler. Thus, the jetfoiler is an electric
powered personal surfboard watercraft that utilizes hydrofoils and
is safe, easy to ride, and easy to transport.
[0051] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of a portion of a jetfoiler
100 in accordance with implementations of the present disclosure.
The jetfoiler 100 includes a board 102, a hydrofoil 104 coupled to
the board 102, a propulsion pod 106 coupled to the hydrofoil 104, a
propeller 108 coupled to the propulsion pod 106, and a propeller
guard 110 surrounding the propeller 108. In some implementations,
the jetfoiler 100 includes the propeller 108 without the propeller
guard 110. When the board 102 floats on a surface of a body of
water (e.g., a lake or ocean), the hydrofoil 104 is submerged under
the surface of the water body (i.e., the hydrofoil 104 is within
the body of water). When the jetfoiler 100 reaches a sufficient or
predetermined speed, lift generated by the hydrofoil 104 lifts the
board 102 over the surface of the body of water. Therefore, the
hydrofoil 104 provides lift for the jetfoiler 100. The jetfoiler
100 may include a variety of hydrofoil combinations including but
not limited to only the hydrofoil 104, more than one hydrofoil, and
a hydrofoil coupled with a canard. The board 102 can have quick
connectors to facilitate the removal/detachment of the hydrofoil
104 from the board 102.
[0052] An operator (also referred to as a rider or user) of the
jetfoiler 100 can stand on a top surface of the board 102 in a
standing position and can use a controller (not shown) coupled to
the board 102 to control the jetfoiler 100. The controller can also
be referred to as a throttle controller. The board 102 can serve as
a flotation device and includes a forward section, a middle
section, and a rear section. The longitudinal and directional
control of the jetfoiler 100 can be controlled by the operator
using any of weight-shifting, engaging with the controller (e.g.,
the operator moving a joystick or knob to the right thereby turning
the jetfoiler 100 in the right direction), and using predetermined
routes (e.g., the operator inputting a route prior to operating the
jetfoiler 100 and the jetfoiler 100 automatically following that
pathway using GPS coordinates). In addition, stability of the
jetfoiler 100 can be controlled by the operator using any of
weight-shifting, engaging with the controller (e.g., the operator
clicking a button to rebalance and stabilize the jetfoiler 100
around a sharp turn), and using another device built-into the
jetfoiler 100 (e.g., a MEMS device including but not limited to a
gyroscope).
[0053] The operator can also be disposed on the top surface of the
board 102 in a prone or kneeling position (in addition to the
standing position). The jetfoiler 100 can also be operated while
the operator is sitting on the board 102 or while the operator is
seated in a chair positioned on or coupled to the top surface of
the board 102. The propulsion pod 106 can include or house a power
system 112 that can receive instructions from the controller (i.e.,
based on the operator's usage of the controller) to power the
propeller 108 (e.g., using a motor of the power system 112) thereby
serving as a propulsion system to operate the jetfoiler 100. The
power system 112 can include but is not limited to any of a motor,
a motor controller (e.g., an electronic speed control (ESC)), a
battery system, and a cooling system. The power system 112 can be
fully housed within the propulsion pod 106 and is revealed in FIG.
1 for illustration purposes. The power system 112 can power the
propeller 108 via a shaft using electric power from a motor (e.g.,
an electric motor) to generate thrust, causing the jetfoiler 100 to
gain speed on the surface of the body of water. The controller can
comprise a throttle that controls the speed of the jetfoiler 100
via the power system 112 by adjusting the thrust generated by the
propeller 108.
[0054] The hydrofoil 104 can comprise a plurality of components
including but not limited to a strut 114, an aft wing 116, and a
forward wing 118. In some implementations, only one wing (the aft
wing 116 or the forward wing 118 or another wing) is coupled to the
hydrofoil 104. In other implementations, more than two wings are
coupled to the hydrofoil 104. In some implementations, the
propulsion pod 106, the power system 112, the propeller 108, and
the propeller guard 110 are also referred to as components of the
hydrofoil 104. The position of any of the plurality of components
of the hydrofoil 104 can be adjustable so that the hydrofoil 104
and the board 102 are coupled using adjustable distances. The strut
114 has an upper end and a lower end with the upper end being
coupled to a bottom surface of the board 102. The upper end of the
strut 114 can be coupled to the bottom surface of the board 102 in
a variety of locations including but not limited to between the
middle and rear sections and near the middle section. The coupling
between the strut 114 and the board 102 can be a fixed
interconnection (e.g., using bolts) or a detachable connection
(e.g., using a waterproof electrical socket with a clipping
mechanism). The coupling between the strut 114 and the board 102
can also be referred to as a strut attachment mechanism.
[0055] In some embodiments, the strut attachment mechanism is a
clipping mechanism that includes two mating plastic parts to form a
socket connection, wherein one of the two mating plastic parts fits
into the strut 114, and the other of the two mating plastic parts
fits into the board 102. The one of the plastic parts (e.g. the
board side part) can be fitted with O-rings, so that when the two
mating plastic parts mate together to form an attachment, the
attachment prevents water intrusion. Sealed spring-loaded
electrical connectors (e.g., three bullet connectors) can fit into
dedicated compartments in the two mating plastic parts. One half of
each connector can fit into the board-side plastic part and the
corresponding one half can fit into the strut-side plastic part.
The sealed spring-loaded electrical connectors can attach to wires
in the board 102 and the strut 114, respectively. When attached,
the sealed spring-loaded electrical connectors can form a
continuous wire run from the board 102 to the propulsion pod
106.
[0056] The strut attachment mechanism can also be designed with a
hinge mechanism, where the user would snap one edge of the top of
the strut 114 into the hinge mechanism on the bottom of the board
102. This allows the user to rotate the strut 114 upright where it
could snap into place using a locking mechanism (e.g., a pawl
latch). To enable a hinge mechanism to serve as the strut
attachment mechanism, the electrical connectors are shaped
differently from a bullet shape so that they can fit into sockets
(e.g., spade lug sockets).
[0057] The strut 114 can connect the board 102 to the propulsion
pod 106 and both the aft wing 116 and the forward wing 118 can be
coupled to the propulsion pod 106. The aft wing 116 and the forward
wing 118 can be collectively referred to as hydrofoil wings
116-118. The propulsion pod 106 may be positioned forward of the
strut 114, aft of the strut 114, or centered around the strut 114.
The positioning of the propulsion pod 106 vis-a-vis the strut 114
will affect the positioning of the propeller 108 vis-a-vis the
strut 114, and may affect the positioning of the hydrofoil wings
116-118 if they are coupled to the propulsion pod 106. The aft and
the forward wings 116-118 can also be coupled to a horizontal
fuselage that is coupled the strut 114 (e.g., either above the
propulsion pod 106 or near a lower end of the strut 114 that is
below the propulsion pod 106) as opposed to indirectly via the
propulsion pod 106. The aft and the forward wings 116-118 can be
coupled to any of a bottom surface, a top surface, and a middle
section (between the bottom and top surface) of the propulsion pod
106. In some implementations, the aft and the forward wings 116-118
are coupled to the bottom surface of the propulsion pod 106;
therefore, the hydrofoil 104 includes a structure that does not
integrate the aft and the forward wings 116-118 with the propulsion
pod 106. The strut 114 can be connected to the board 102 via a
strut slot that provides an opening on both a bottom surface and a
top surface of the board 102 at a similar location. The strut slot
can vary in shape and size and can comprise a thin rectangular line
opening. The strut 114 can be a vertical strut with similar
dimensions (e.g., rectangular shape) or varying dimensions (e.g.,
tapered shape) between the upper end and the lower.
[0058] The aft and forward wings 116-118 can be horizontal wings
that extend from both sides of the propulsion pod 106. The aft and
forward wings 116-118 (and any other wings coupled to the
propulsion pod 106) can include a variety of sizes and designs
(e.g., different curved flaps, winglets coming off the edges, etc.)
to enable customization of the jetfoiler 100 according to
experience levels and desires of the operator. The aft and forward
wings 116-118 can be fixed components of the hydrofoil 104 or the
aft and forward wings 116-118 can be or can contain movable
structures that are controlled by an operator of the jetfoiler 100
(e.g., controlled using the controller). In addition, other
components of the hydrofoil 104 can be movable or repositionable
using the controller. For example, the strut 114 or the propulsion
pod 106 can be moved to different positions with varying angles.
The operator can move various components of the hydrofoil 104
including the aft and the forward wings 116-118 based on varying
conditions including but not limited to experience level and
performance requirements.
[0059] The propulsion pod 106 is an underwater housing used to
integrate a propulsion system (i.e., a system comprising at least
the propeller 108 and part of the power system 112) into the strut
114 to provide a combined component. The propulsion system can also
be referred to as a propeller system. The combined component can be
manufactured to have a continuous shell of carbon fiber, aluminum,
or another similar material. The combined component can provide
both the housing of the propulsion pod 106 and the strut 114
thereby reducing parts, assembling effort, and manufacturing costs
while increasing structural integrity. The propulsion pod 106 may
also be detachable from the strut 114 to enable the two parts
(i.e., the propulsion pod 106 and the strut 114) to be manufactured
more easily (e.g., in separate factories and quickly assembled or
disassembled for repair). The aft and forward wings 116-118 can be
secured to the propulsion pod 106 via a plurality of mechanisms
including but not limited to removable bolts. The propulsion pod
106 can house a motor and other components (e.g., motor controller,
battery, etc.) of the power system 112 and can also act as a spacer
between the aft and forward wings 116-118.
[0060] In some implementations, the propulsion pod 106 can be
integrated into the strut 114 above a horizontal part (e.g., a
fuselage) of the hydrofoil 104; therefore, the motor and other
components of the power system 112 are housed elsewhere from the
propulsion pod 106 (i.e., the power system 112 is not housed within
the propulsion pod 106). In another implementation, parts of the
power system 112, including a motor and a gearbox (if a gearbox is
used) and optionally a motor controller (e.g., an ESC) are housed
in the propulsion pod 106, while the battery system or batteries
are housed elsewhere (e.g., in the board 102). In other
implementations, the propulsion pod 106 is a separate component
that can be attached to and detached from the strut 114 (i.e., the
propulsion pod 106 and the strut 114 are not one continuous
combined component) to allow the propulsion pod 106 to be carried
to a charging location/station to change or charge a battery of the
power system 112 stored within the propulsion pod 106 without
having to also carry the strut 114 and/or the entire jetfoiler 100
to the charging location/station.
[0061] The board 102 can be a lightweight, low-drag platform that
is longer than it is wide (i.e., a length of the board 102 is
greater than a width of the board 102). The board 102 can be made
of a buoyant material (e.g., polyurethane or polystyrene foam or a
similar type of foam covered with layers of fiberglass cloth or
carbon cloth or a similar type of cloth and a polyester resin or
epoxy resin or a similar type of resin) that is designed to provide
the operator with a place to stand when the jetfoiler 100 is in
use. In some implementations, the board 102 includes a design shape
that works with both the hydrofoil 104 and the operator's unique
characteristics (e.g., expertise level, height, weight, etc.). For
example, the board 102 can include a beginner shape that is large,
more buoyant, and does not include a planing mode or the board 102
can include an advanced shape that is small, not buoyant enough for
the operator to stand on the board 102 while it is stationary, and
does include a planing mode.
[0062] In some implementations, the board 102 includes a design
shape (or is shaped) so that drag versus velocity curves of the
board 102 in displacement (or non-foiling) mode, foiling mode, and
where applicable, planing mode, are complimentary thereby achieving
a smooth transition between modes, both during takeoff (i.e., when
the operator is starting operation of the jetfoiler 100) and during
landing (i.e., when the operator is ending operation of the
jetfoiler 100) of the jetfoiler 100. The board 102 can include a
mechanism that enables the board 102 to be aware of (or can
determine) which mode (e.g., non-foiling mode, foiling mode,
planing mode, etc.) the board 102 is currently within or will pass
through to provide smooth transition between the various modes. The
jetfoiler 100 is a foiling device and so the operator may
transition between modes accidentally when speed is changed thereby
causing operators with a beginner level of experience to spend a
lot of time between modes. Therefore, a smooth transition makes it
easier to operate the jetfoiler 100 and allows the operator to slow
down or speed up without falling as the jetfoiler 100 transitions
between the various modes.
[0063] When the board 102 is in contact with the surface of the
body of water to obtain buoyancy (e.g., when the operator is about
to takeoff), the jetfoiler 100 is in a non-foiling (or
displacement) mode. When the board 102 is above the surface of the
body of water and obtains no buoyancy from the water (e.g., when
the operator is operating the jetfoiler 100), the jetfoiler 100 is
in a foiling mode. When the jetfoiler 100 is partially supported by
the lift generated by the board 102 gliding at a certain speed on
the surface of the body of water and before reaching another speed
that puts the jetfoiler 100 in the foiling mode, the jetfoiler 100
is in a planing mode. Watercrafts (e.g., boats) that are designed
to plane at low speeds include a design with planing hulls that
enable the watercrafts to rise up partially out of the water when
enough power is supplied. The board 102 can be similarly
shaped/designed to have a design shape with a planning hull for the
planing mode. In some implementations, the board 102 may provide
enough buoyancy to support the full weight of the operator during
the non-foiling mode.
[0064] The design shape of the board 102 and wing placement of the
jetfoiler 100 can be configured in such a way that a center of
buoyancy of the jetfoiler 100 in the non-foiling mode and a center
of lift from the hydrofoil wings 116-118 in the foiling mode are
aligned or substantially aligned. In other words, an upward force
generated by a buoyancy of the board 102 when the board 102 is
touching a body of water (e.g., the board 102 is in displacement or
non-foiling mode) centered in approximately a same position and in
a same direction (e.g., in the forward/aft direction) as an upward
force from a lift generated by the hydrofoil wings 116-118 when the
board 102 is foiling (e.g., the board 102 is in foiling mode).
Therefore, the shape and composition of the board 102 is correlated
to the position of the hydrofoil wings 116-118 to provide an
alignment that matches the center of buoyancy to the center of
lift.
[0065] The alignment between the center of buoyancy and the center
of lift means that minimal repositioning is required for the
operator to maintain stability during transitioning of modes (i.e.,
the operator of the jetfoiler 100 does not have to change foot
positioning or substantially redistribute his or her weight as s/he
transitions from non-foiling mode to foiling mode or from foiling
mode to non-foiling mode, etc.), making the jetfoiler 100 easier to
ride. In addition, the operator does not need to sit or lie on the
board 102 to transition from the non-foiling mode to the foiling
mode. Positioning of the hydrofoil wings 116-118 will determine the
positioning of the center of lift when the jetfoiler 100 is in
foiling mode and will determine optimal body positioning for the
operator when the board 102 is in foiling mode.
[0066] The jetfoiler 100 can include a variety of features to
provide increased safety during operation including but not limited
to safety shut-offs, speed limitations, and sensor data collection
and analysis. For example, the jetfoiler 100 can include an
ankle-tethered magnetic kill switch to provide an additional level
of safety (beyond a level of safety garnered from the operator
being able to release or let go of the throttle) if the operator
falls into the body of water during operation (i.e., the jetfoiler
100 can shut off when the operator falls into the water with the
kill switch that has released from the jetfoiler 100). The
jetfoiler 100 can also be configured to provide motor braking when
a kill switch tether (e.g., the ankle-tethered magnetic kill switch
attached to the operator) is detected by the jetfoiler 100 to be
detached even if the operator hasn't fallen off the jetfoiler
100.
[0067] In addition, during normal operation, the jetfoiler 100 can
be configured to transition from the non-foiling mode to the
foiling mode between a predetermined speed (e.g., 8-10 knots). The
throttle of the jetfoiler 100 can be limited to reach a
predetermined maximum or peak speed limit (e.g., 15 knots peak
speed) to further enhance safety. Smart throttle limiting options
can also be implemented to make it easier to change the peak speed
limit. For example, the operator can set an experience level to
beginner which would automatically lower the peak speed limit in
comparison to the higher peak speed limit set for an operation with
an advanced experience level. The jetfoiler 100 can also use a
folding propeller (i.e., a propeller system with propeller blades
that can fold to various positions including a collapsed position
that reduces potential harm from coming into contact with the
propeller blades) that increases operator safety by collapsing from
one position to another position when not deliberately in use. The
jetfoiler 100 can have device-specific battery packs (e.g., LiFePO4
or LiIon batteries) that further increase the safety of the device.
The jetfoiler 100 can include a variety of sensors to detect data
associated with leaks, fallen operators, damaged propellers and/or
wings (or other components of the jetfoiler 100) and can transmit
the detected data to the operator or third-parties (e.g., rental
shop) to improve the safety and operation of the jetfoiler 100.
[0068] The jetfoiler 100 can include a variety of features to
provide easy portability and transportation. For example, the board
102 can be made of a carbon fiber material that keeps the jetfoiler
100 lightweight. The jetfoiler 100 can include batteries within the
power system 112 that are reduced in size and/or weight which also
contributes to a lighter weight. A hydrofoil (e.g., the hydrofoil
104) of the jetfoiler 100 can comprise a single hydrofoil having
one vertical strut (e.g., the strut 114) and two horizontal wings
(the aft and forward wings 116-118) to provide lift using a
simplified structure that makes the jetfoiler 100 easy for one or
two persons to carry and to launch into the water for takeoff.
Alternatively, the hydrofoil of the jetfoiler 100 can include a
structure that is more complex than the hydrofoil 104 and that
comprises a plurality of struts and a plurality of wings in
addition to an aft wing and a forward wing that are coupled
together in a variety of positions and shapes.
[0069] In addition, the jetfoiler 100 can also use a detachable
wing design that allows the jetfoiler 100 to be made smaller so
that it can be packed into a carrying device for transportation.
The board 102 of the jetfoiler 100 can also be made of an
inflatable material to make it easy to transport when the board 102
is reduced in size by being in its deflated state. The board 102
can include one or more retractable or detachable wheels that allow
a single person to roll the jetfoiler 100 across a ground surface
(e.g., a dock, a boat deck, a beach, etc.). The board 102 can have
quick connectors for on-board electronics that enable detachment of
the hydrofoil 104 from the board 102 (e.g., as aforementioned with
regards to the various strut attachment mechanisms). The on-board
electronics can comprise electronics for controlling
operation/speed of the jetfoiler 100 that are stored within wells
that are built-into the top surface of the board 102.
[0070] FIG. 2 illustrates a top view of an example of a board 200
of a jetfoiler in accordance with implementations of the present
disclosure. The board 200 is a component of the jetfoiler (e.g.,
the jetfoiler 100 of FIG. 1) that is coupled to a hydrofoil of the
jetfoiler. The board 200 has dimensions that can include a length
that is greater than a width. For example, the length of the board
200 can be approximately 2365 millimeters (mm) and the width of the
board 200 can be approximately 698 mm. The board 200 can have
symmetrical dimensions so that opposite sides of the board 200 are
identical or can have asymmetrical dimensions. The board can come
in a variety of different shapes and sizes. For example, a
jetfoiler can include a board that is smaller and shaped for
higher-performance in comparison to the board 200. The smaller
board could be one in which an operator (i.e., user/rider) could
not stand until the board were in motion. Such boards can be
configured with handles to help the operator shift from a prone or
lying down position to a standing position.
[0071] The board 200 can include a variety of different length and
width measurements based on varying considerations including but
not limited to the experience level of an operator of the jetfoiler
(e.g., larger dimensions for beginner operators and smaller
dimensions for advanced operators). In one example, for beginner
operators, the board 200 can be larger in size (i.e., the board 200
includes a longer length and a longer width) so that it is easier
to stand on when not foiling. In another example, the board 200 can
be smaller in size (i.e., the board 200 includes a shorter length
and a shorter width in comparison to the larger size used for
beginner operators) thereby improving performance (e.g., reduced
drag on the board 200, reduced time period to transition from
non-foiling mode to foiling mode, enhanced power efficiency, etc.)
for more advanced operators. The board 200 also includes a
thickness that can vary for similar performance requirements (e.g.,
thicker dimensions for beginner operators and thinner dimensions
for advanced operators). If the board 200 is smaller and/or
narrower, the board 200 may include handles to make it easier for
the operator to transition from non-foiling to foiling mode while
lying down and to stand up once he/she has put the board 200 in
foiling mode.
[0072] A jetfoiler (e.g., the jetfoiler 100 of FIG. 1) can be
operated by the operator using a controller and can be steered by
the operator using weight shifting and feet positioning in relation
to a board of the jetfoiler. In addition, the jetfoiler can include
an optional rudder-type device coupled to the board to steer the
jetfoiler using a movable steering system. The operator can steer
or control the jetfoiler using the rudder-type device by engaging
with the controller (e.g., moving a knob of the controller to the
right to steer the jetfoiler to the right) or the rudder-type
device can automatically steer the jetfoiler using machine learning
mechanisms and sensors that detect various conditions and adjust
the jetfoiler accordingly (e.g., sensors of the jetfoiler recognize
that the jetfoiler is leaning too far to the right and so
automatically adjust the rudder-type device to balance the
jetfoiler by steering the jetfoiler to the left).
[0073] Every jetfoiler in operation can record a stream of data
(e.g., a high fidelity stream of data) indicating how the rider is
operating the jetfoiler and how the jetfoiler is responding (e.g.,
data recordings associated with speed, elevation, attitude,
stability, power and temperatures, etc.). The jetfoiler can
optionally upload this data to a central server when connected to
the Internet. Machine learning techniques can be employed to alter
the responsiveness of each jetfoiler, based on what is learned from
the aggregate data from all jetfoilers, to make the board of the
jetfoiler easier to ride and less likely to defoil or overheat. The
jetfoiler can include additional components including but not
limited to adjustable flaps (also referred to as moveable control
surfaces) on the aft and forward wings 116-118 (i.e., the hydrofoil
wings 116-118), that can be automatically controlled to stabilize
the jetfoiler. If the jetfoiler doesn't include the rudder-type
device, the jetfoiler can allow the operator to steer the board by
positioning his/her feet in foot straps (e.g., pulling back against
the foot straps) and by shifting his/her weight. Steering using
weight shifting and feet positioning is similar to windsurfing and
can simplify the steering process of the jetfoiler for the
operator.
[0074] FIG. 3 illustrates a side view of an example of a jetfoiler
300 in accordance with implementations of the present disclosure.
The jetfoiler 300 can be similar to the jetfoiler 100 of FIG. 1.
The jetfoiler 300 includes a board 302 coupled to a strut component
of a hydrofoil 304. Additional components of the hydrofoil 304
(e.g., a propulsion pod, wings, etc.) are not shown as they are
submerged below a surface of a body of water. On a top surface of
the board 302, the jetfoiler 300 includes at least one footstrap
320 that is used by an operator to operate and to steer the
jetfoiler 300. The operator can steer the jetfoiler 300 using the
at least one footstrap 320 in a variety of ways including but not
limited to adjusting the positioning of his/her feet in related to
the at least one footstrap 320, shifting his/her weight across the
board 302, pulling back against the at least one footstrap 320, and
loosening contact with the at least one footstrap 320.
[0075] FIG. 4 illustrates a top view of an example of a board 400
of a jetfoiler in accordance with implementations of the present
disclosure. The board 400 is a component of the jetfoiler (e.g.,
the jetfoiler 100 of FIG. 1) that is coupled to a hydrofoil (e.g.,
the hydrofoil 104 of FIG. 1). The board 400 includes a strut slot
402, a trough 404 running from a first well (also referred to as
smaller well) 406 to a second well (also referred to as larger
well) 408 and then running from the larger well 408 to the strut
slot 402. The strut slot 402 may be positioned inside/underneath
the larger well 408. The larger well 408 has a waterproof lid/seal
(not shown). Lids can be attached in a variety of ways, for
example, with a series of bolts tightened to seal a gasket, or,
alternatively, with a bulb seal locked down using a hinge mechanism
and latch. When using a hinge mechanism, the board 400 may use a
bulb seal made of a variety of materials (e.g., rubber and
positioned next to a lip built into the board 400, out of carbon
fiber and positioned around an aft well such as the larger well
408). The lip can block residual water from coming into the aft
well and also helps push against the bulb seal to ensure that the
lid and the board 400 form a watertight fit. The lid can be built
out of carbon fiber to mate precisely with the board 400. To seal
the lid to the board 400, the jetfoiler could use a hinge mechanism
(e.g., two hinges on one side of the lid and a mechanical locking
system on the other side of the lid to hold it in place under
pressure). Accordingly, the lid can form a large part of the
surface of the board 400 and can seal watertight (i.e., form a
watertight seal) against the board 400 when it is locked down.
[0076] The second well 408 (i.e., an aft well) may be divided into
two (or more) compartments to separate the contents of the second
well 408 (e.g., a forward compartment for batteries and an aft
compartment for other electronics). A tunnel may run through the
board material between the two compartments to allow wires to
connect the electronics in the two compartments under the seal of a
lid of the second well 408. The trough 404 between the second well
408 and the first well 406 may also be covered or sealed and may be
constructed to include a tunnel between the two wells 406-408 to
allow communication links (e.g., wires) to run between the two
wells 406-408 without any water contact.
[0077] The first well 406 (i.e., a forward well) may include a
variety of electronics including but not limited to
microcontrollers, an antenna to receive wireless communications
from a throttle, a display (e.g., an LCD display), and a safety
kill switch attachment point (e.g., a magnetic attachment point).
In versions of the jetfoiler that use a wireless throttle, there is
no junction box necessary to connect a throttle cable to the board
electronics. The first well 406 may have a lid as well as the
second well 408. The lid of the first well 406 may be similar in
construction to the lid of the second well 408, or it may be made
from a clear material, like plexiglass or glass, when it would be
valuable for the operator to see components inside the well (e.g.,
a display).
[0078] A deckpad 410 surrounds at least the strut slot 402, a
portion of the trough 404, and the second well 408. The deckpad 410
can cover other areas of the board 400, including covering lids on
the second well 408 and the strut slot 402, when the second well
408 and the strut slot 402 are enclosed. The board 400 can made of
a variety of materials including but not limited to a carbon fiber
external material with a foam core internal material. The board 400
can have a variety of dimensions including but not limited to
approximately 7.75 feet.times.2.25 feet.times.0.4 feet. A
higher-performance board might have dimensions including but not
limited to 5 feet.times.2 feet.times.0.5 feet.
[0079] The board 400 can also include a heat sink (not shown) on a
bottom surface of the board 400. The heat sink can be made from a
material (e.g., aluminum) that is known to have heat dissipating
properties and is in contact with water and/or moving air while the
jetfoiler is in operation. The heat sink uses a material known to
be a passive heat exchanger to transfer heat generated by the
jetfoiler power system into the water or air, in order to absorb
excessive or unwanted heat generated during operation of the
jetfoiler (e.g., heat generated by electronics or by the power
system that can be coupled to the board 400 via the first and the
second wells 406-408). For example, when the board 400 houses
certain components including but not limited to batteries, motor
controllers, and motors within any of the first and the second
wells 406-408 instead of housing these components within a power
system of a propulsion pod of the hydrofoil (e.g., the power system
112 of the propulsion pod 106 of the hydrofoil 104 of FIG. 1), then
the board 400 can include the heat sink to prevent these components
from overheating by dissipating heat into the air or water. For
example, the heat sink may be made from an aluminum plate built
into the bottom surface of the board 400, sometimes coupled to an
adjacent aluminum bracket to hold a component (e.g., the motor
controller) that is generating unwanted heat. In some
implementations, the heat sink of the board 400 is located aft of a
strut of the hydrofoil so that water spray generated by the strut
passing through the surface of the water (also referred to as strut
spray) hits the heat sink thereby providing additional cooling.
[0080] The board 400 can include built-in wells (e.g., the first
well 406 and the second well 408) to house electronics such as at
least one electronics unit. The first and the second wells 406-408
can be sized and spaced in a variety of ways, including divided
into smaller compartments, to accommodate particular needs of
on-board electronics and an operator of the jetfoiler. The
configuration of the first and the second wells 406-408 facilitates
removal of electronics (e.g., the at least one electronics unit) to
provide streamlined modifications, maintenance, and/or upgrades to
be conducted on the jetfoiler and to provide access to a storage
unit (e.g., memory card) that stores ride data associated with
operation of the jetfoiler (e.g., GPS coordinates, speed, health of
components, etc.). In some implementations, a user may access
and/or download the ride data wirelessly (i.e., the storage unit
can wirelessly communicate the stored ride data), instead of having
to remove the storage unit from the electronics unit.
[0081] In some implementations, electronics of the board 400 can be
secured or embedded within the board 400 instead of being housed
within the first and the second wells 406-408 to inhibit removal of
the electronics and provide protection (e.g., from water erosion).
The second well 408 can be located in an aft one-third (1/3) of the
board 400, forward of an aft footstrap (not shown) and centered
relative to starboard/port. The trough 404 can be a shallow trough
of a predetermined depth to enable a predetermined type of wiring
to pass through between the first and the second wells 406-408. The
trough 404 may also be fully enclosed, like a tunnel between the
two wells for the communication link/wire to pass through. The
board 400 can have fewer than two wells or more than two wells in
addition to the first and the second wells 406-408. For example,
the board 400 can have another well that houses an auxiliary
battery for emergency usage. The auxiliary battery can serve as an
additional battery relative to the battery housed within a power
system of a propulsion pod of the hydrofoil that is coupled to the
board 400. As another example, the board 400 can have additional
wells for storing personal items (e.g., smartphones) and safety
items (e.g., first-aid kit).
[0082] The strut slot 402 can be located in the aft one-fourth
(1/4) of the board 400. The strut of the hydrofoil (not shown) can
be bolted to the board 400. The strut can include wires that
connect a motor of the jetfoiler (e.g., a motor within the power
system) to an electronics unit within the second well 408 that can
control the motor. The wires can exit the strut and enter the
second well 408 that houses the electronics unit. The strut slot
402 is positioned within the board 400 so that placement of the
hydrofoil (and associated wings such as the aft and forward wings
116-118 of FIG. 1) under the board 400 allows alignment of a center
of buoyancy in a non-foiling or displacement mode that supports the
operator with a center of lift in the foiling mode that supports
the operator. The alignment between the center of buoyancy and the
center of lift enables the operator to maintain stability during
transition/operation between modes without having to shift his/her
position substantially.
[0083] The trough 404 can not only enable a first wire or cable to
run forward from the electronics unit via the second well 408 to
the first well 406 but can also enable a second wire or cable to
run aft from the electronics unit via the second well 408 to the
strut slot 402. The first and second wires can be a variety of wire
types including but not limited to straight or coiled wires. A
junction box may be used to facilitate transitions between
electrical wires, including joining straight and coiled wires. The
first wire can enable the throttle to communicate with an
electronics unit (e.g., an electronics unit housed within the
second well 408) via a junction box (e.g., a junction box located
within the first well 406) or directly and without a junction box
to adjust speed of the jetfoiler. The second wire can enable the
electronics unit to communicate with the power system (and
associated motor) housed within the propulsion pod of the hydrofoil
that is connected via the strut slot 402 to a surface beneath the
board 400.
[0084] Therefore, when the throttle is adjusted (i.e., the throttle
is pressed/released to increase/decrease speed) by the operator,
the electronics unit (e.g., a microcontroller of the electronics
unit or a microcontroller that serves as the electronics unit),
receives information associated with the adjustment. The
information can also first be transmitted to the optional junction
box prior to being transmitted to the electronics unit. This
information may be relayed wirelessly or via a wired connection
(e.g., a coiled throttle wire connecting the throttle to either the
junction box or to the electronics unit directly). The electronics
unit then processes the information to generate commands that are
transmitted to a motor controller coupled to the motor thereby
adjusting the motor accordingly via the second wire.
[0085] The first well 406 can be located forward of the deckpad 410
to enable a straight wire (e.g., the first wire) instead of the
coiled throttle wire to run along the trough 404 and to the second
well 408. The first well 406 can be configured to hold or house a
junction box which connects a straight wire running from the second
well 408 and through the board 400 via the trough 404 to a coiled
throttle wire that runs to the throttle (not shown) that is held by
the operator to enable operation of the jetfoiler. In some
implementations, the board 400 does not include the first well 406
or the junction box housed within; instead, the throttle can be
directly coupled to an electronics unit housed within the second
well 408, either by a wire or wirelessly, using an antenna. The
electronics unit may also be expanded and/or divided, so that some
of the electronics are housed in the first well 406 and some of the
electronics are housed in the second well 408. The electronics unit
can include multiple components including but not limited to
microcontrollers, kill switches, displays, junction boxes or
similar components, and any other electronic components.
[0086] The second well 408 is sized large enough to hold the
electronics unit, and can be sized large enough to hold batteries
or a battery system. The electronics unit can be divided into two
units so that some of the components are housed in the first well
406 and some in the second well 408. The electronics unit can be a
variety of types including but not limited to an electronics unit
that comprises at least two microcontrollers, a kill switch (e.g.,
one magnetic safety kill switch), and a display (e.g., one or more
LCD or LED displays). A first microcontroller of the electronics
unit can be used to safely control a speed of the board 400, by
turning the operator's speed input and associated information from
a throttle (e.g., a thumb throttle) held by the operator into
commands or instructions for a motor controller for a motor of a
power system (e.g., the power system 112 of FIG. 1). The operator
can adjust the thumb throttle to adjust the speed (e.g., press down
on the thumb throttle to increase speed) thereby generating
information to adjust the speed of the jetfoiler. The information
can be received by the first microcontroller that is in
communication with the thumb throttle via a throttle cable (e.g.,
the coiled throttle wire), or via a wireless link. The information
can then be communicated from the first microcontroller to the
motor controller via the first wire or cable that runs from the
electronics unit of the second well 408 to the first well 406, or
via another wire or cable when the microcontroller and motor
controller are housed in the same well, or when the motor
controller is housed in the propulsion pod. The motor controller
can convert the information into commands or instructions that are
then communicated by the motor controller to the motor (e.g.,
electric motor, brushless electric motor, etc.) to adjust the
jetfoiler's speed. The first microcontroller can also take input
from the kill switch to adjust (i.e., bring to a stop) the
jetfoiler's speed.
[0087] The second microcontroller of the electronics unit can
record data about performance of the jetfoiler (or various
components of the jetfoiler including but not limited to the
motor). The data can be referred to as ride data and can be stored
via a storage device (e.g., SD card) associated with the
electronics unit. The electronics unit can include additional
microcontrollers for providing additional functionality including
but not limited to a microcontroller that functions as a receiver
to talk to a microcontroller that functions as a transmitter in a
wireless throttle, a microcontroller that records ride data, a
microcontroller that monitors the battery, and a microcontroller
that can send and receive communications with a third-party device
(e.g., wireless communications of the ride data). The first or
second or any additional microcontrollers can be configured to have
a variety of functions including but not limited to limiting speed,
changing display options, controlling throttle curves, etc. The
configurations of the additional microcontrollers can be made
manually or can be adjusted wirelessly (e.g., based on a user
interface provided via an application on a mobile device, a tablet,
computer, etc.). Additional microcontrollers may exist in the
jetfoiler system outside of the board 400, for example, in the
throttle controller, as a wireless transmitter, or in the
propulsion pod, as a temperature monitor.
[0088] The display of the electronics unit can be a variety of
displays including but not limited to an LCD or LED display. The
display or a separate display can be located on the throttle, an
optional handlebar coupled to both the throttle and the board, in
an optional console area or additional well, or elsewhere on the
jetfoiler or on a wireless throttle or wearable display held or
worn by the operator. There can be more than one display and the
display can be configured to show a variety of information
including but not limited to battery life status (e.g., time until
charge needed), temperature (e.g., of the environment, of the
water, of the motor, etc.), battery voltage, current, power,
percentage of throttle in use, motor rpm and other information
(e.g., health of various components such as the propeller system or
motor). For example, the display can provide a low battery alarm,
show telemetry, display a message to return back to the start
location, encourage the rider to ride more efficiently or safely
(e.g., reduce speed), display error codes, and/or indicate whether
or not the jetfoiler has activated its emergency stop (letting
users know that the jetfoiler is not broken but instead has turned
itself off for safety reasons or that the kill switch was
accidentally triggered, etc.).
[0089] The electronics unit of the second well 408 or any other
on-board electronics that are coupled to the board 400 or built
into the throttle unit can include a variety of different
components. For example, the on-board electronics can include a
Global Positioning System (GPS) or similar location tracking
mechanism to record jetfoiler position during operation and/or
storage. This information can be used to advise the user when to
return to a starting position and can be part of the ride data. As
another example, the components can include sensors or device
electronics that detect leaks, fallen riders, collisions, improper
battery hookups, fouled propellers, and/or low power system
efficiency. The jetfoiler can be configured to shut down the power
system when any of these conditions or any combination thereof are
detected by the on-board electronics. The on-board electronics can
include additional components that advise the user about the
detected conditions via a plurality of alert mechanisms including
but not limited to beep codes, alarms, vibrations, lights (e.g.,
red flashing light), text messages, other communication messages
(e.g., email), or any combination thereof. The alert mechanisms can
be displayed via the display of the electronics unit, the board 400
itself, the throttle, a wristband worn by the operator, or any
other visible area of the jetfoiler.
[0090] The deckpad 410 can comprise a rubber padding or similar
coating to provide operator stability. For example, the deckpad 410
can be made from Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA) to provide cushion
and traction for the operator/rider. The deckpad 410 can cover the
strut slot 402 and the trough 404 and may also cover the first
and/or the second wells 406-408 when the wells are enclosed (e.g.,
enclosed using a lid). The deckpad 410 can also be placed within
other areas. One or more footstraps (e.g., the at least one
footstrap 320 of FIG. 3) are located on the board 400 to provide
proper rider weight distribution and rider control. Several holes
can be drilled into the board 400 to allow operators to position
the one or more footstraps in a way that is appropriate for the
operator's age, height, weight, stance, riding style (e.g., regular
or goofy), and skill level.
[0091] The kill switch housed within the first well 406 or the
second well 408 (or another area of the board 400) can operate as a
"dead man's switch" which is a physical switch that stops the
jetfoiler from running if the operator falls off via separation
between the kill switch and a contactor. The operator can attach a
tether to his/her ankle so that when he/she falls off the
jetfoiler, the tether pulls the kill switch (e.g., pulls a magnetic
clip that couples the kill switch to the electronics unit via the
contactor) away from the board 400 which activates the kill switch
and shuts or slows down the jetfoiler. In some implementations, the
kill switch can be activated by a radio link between a pendant and
a controller of the electronics unit. When the operator falls off
the board 400, the jetfoiler is shut down by killing a logic
voltage to the controller instead of by separating the contactor of
the physical switch from the board 400. The kill switch can be used
to provide a motor braking option. When the kill switch is
activated (either via disruption of the physical switch or via the
radio link), the motor controller can control the motor to reduce
the speed of the jetfoiler and thus stop the jetfoiler for
safety.
[0092] In addition to the kill switch, various hardware and
software fail-safe mechanisms can be added to the jetfoiler. For
example, if software processed by the electronics unit detects a
device speed above or below a certain threshold that the throttle
controls (e.g., the speed detected is above a peak speed limit that
the jetfoiler should not be able to go over), the software (e.g.,
by sending an instruction to the motor via the electronics unit)
can shut or slow down the jetfoiler. If the software detects
current when the throttle is not engaged, the jetfoiler can be shut
down or an error message displayed. In another example, if the
jetfoiler accelerates without drawing the right amount of current
or accelerates faster than it could with an operator on board, the
jetfoiler can also be shut or slowed down.
[0093] FIG. 5 illustrates an example of a first well 500 within a
board of a jetfoiler in accordance with implementations of the
present disclosure. The first well 500 can be created or built-in
directly into a top surface of the board (e.g., the board 400 of
FIG. 4). The first well 500 houses a junction box 502 that is
connected to a throttle cable 504 that receives inputs from an
operator of the jetfoiler. For example, the operator can engage
with (e.g., press, release, move a joystick, etc.) a throttle
controller coupled to the throttle cable 504 and the information
associated with the engaged action is transmitted to the junction
box 502. The first well 500 is a smaller well (e.g., the
first/smaller well 406 of FIG. 4) in comparison to a larger well
(e.g., the second/larger well 408 of FIG. 4).
[0094] The larger well can house an electronics unit that can
receive the information from the junction box 502 for processing
thereby generating commands or instructions that can then be
transmitted to an electric propeller system of the jetfoiler to
control operation of the jetfoiler. For example, a motor controller
(e.g., an ESC) that controls a motor of the electric propeller
system can receive a command from the electronics unit to increase
speed of the jetfoiler thereby resulting in the speed of the
jetfoiler being increased via the electric propeller system.
[0095] FIG. 6 illustrates an example of a second well 600 within a
board of a jetfoiler in accordance with implementations of the
present disclosure. The second well 600 can be created directly
into a top surface of the board (e.g., the board 400 of FIG. 4 and
similar to the first well 500 of FIG. 5). The second well 600
houses an electronics unit 602 that includes a display unit (e.g.,
LCD or LED) 604, a first communication link 606, a second
communication link 608, and a plurality of microcontrollers (not
shown). The first and the second communication links 606-608 can
comprise wires of a plurality of varying types. Fewer or more than
two communications links (i.e., the first and the second
communication links 606-608) can be housed within the second well
600.
[0096] The first communication link 606 can connect the second well
600 to a first well (e.g., the first well 500 of FIG. 5) and can
travel along a trough (e.g., the trough 404 of FIG. 4) within the
deckpad (e.g., the deckpad 410 of FIG. 4) of the board. The second
communication link 608 can connect the second well 600 to a power
system (e.g., the power system 112 of FIG. 1) and can travel along
the trough and through a strut slot (e.g., the strut slot 402 of
FIG. 4) via a strut (e.g., the strut 114 of FIG. 1) and to the
power system. The second communication link 608 can communicate
with a motor controller of the power system. The first and second
communication links 606-608 can also use wireless communications to
transmit data between various components of the jetfoiler (e.g.,
transmitting data between the electronics unit 602 of the second
well 600 and a motor controller wirelessly). Therefore, the first
and second communication links 606-608 can be wired communication
links or wireless communication links.
[0097] The plurality of microcontrollers can include a first
microcontroller for transmitting commands that have been generated
using information received from the throttle (via operator input).
The commands can be transmitted via the second communication link
608 to the motor controller (or another component) of the power
system that processes the received commands and controls or alters
the operation (e.g., increase/decrease speed) of the jetfoiler. The
plurality of microcontrollers can include a second microcontroller
for logging information (e.g., ride data, run-time, routes,
component temperature, motor rpm, operator attributes, etc.). The
second well 600 can include a variety of components including but
not limited to a connector to a footstrap 620 (e.g., the at least
one footstrap 320 of FIG. 3) and an LCD display 604 and a kill
switch 630 that can be coupled to the operator (e.g., via a
tether/leash or a proximity sensor that senses when a rider has
fallen off) to stop operation of the jetfoiler when the operator
falls off the board. In some implementations, the footstrap 620 and
the kill switch 630 are not coupled within the second well 600 and
are instead coupled to a first well (e.g., the first well 500 of
FIG. 5) or to other areas of the board.
[0098] A board of the jetfoiler can also be made of a material that
enables the board to be inflatable. For example, the board can be
made using a drop-stitch construction. The board can be inflated
using a variety of pumps (e.g., self-inflation pump that can be
housed within or coupled to the jetfoiler) and to a predetermined
pressure including but not limited to 15 pounds per square inch
(psi). An inflatable board can be easier to transport in comparison
to a rigid board (e.g., a board made of carbon fiber and/or foam
such as the board 102 of FIG. 1 and the board 400 of FIG. 4). An
inflatable jetfoiler board, made out of PVC or a similar material,
can combine the contents of the first and second well in order to
house them in a rigid, oval-shaped tray made out of carbon fiber or
a similar material.
[0099] A power system of the jetfoiler (e.g., the power system 112
of FIG. 1) can be housed, in the propulsion pod (as shown in FIG.
1), in the second well located in the board, or in a rigid tray
(also referred to as a tray) enclosed by an inflatable board at a
top end of a strut (e.g., the strut 114 of the hydrofoil 104 of
FIG. 1), thereby enabling use of a hydrofoil and a power system
with inflatable boards that come with different sizes and shapes
and features. The material of the inflatable board can include a
predetermined carve-out designed to accept the tray that is rigid
as the board is being inflated. The inflatable board can use an
adapter to enable coupling with the hydrofoil (i.e., hydrofoil
assembly). The adapter can adapt a sharp-cornered shape of the tray
to a rounded elliptical shape that can be more readily embedded
into the inflatable board. A sectional profile of the adapter
includes a semi-circular internal concavity along its perimeter
that allows an inflation pressure of the inflatable board to hold
it in place. The tray can be coupled to the inflatable board
without using the adapter if the tray is pre-shaped with a rounded
elliptical shape that is easier to couple with the inflatable
board.
[0100] FIG. 7A illustrates a top view of an example of a jetfoiler
700 with an inflatable board 702 in accordance with implementations
of the present disclosure. The jetfoiler 700 includes the
inflatable board 702 coupled around a hydrofoil power system 704.
In FIG. 7A, only a top portion of the hydrofoil power system 704 is
shown. FIG. 7B illustrates an example of the hydrofoil power system
704 of the jetfoiler 700 with the inflatable board 702 in
accordance with implementations of the present disclosure.
[0101] The jetfoiler 700 can comprise two stand-alone components
(one for the inflatable board 702 and another for the hydrofoil
power system 704) that can be coupled together. The jetfoiler 700
can also comprise a singular device that includes the inflatable
board 702 connected around the hydrofoil power system 704. If the
jetfoiler 700 comprises two stand-alone components, they can be
reattached and attached (e.g., when the inflatable board 702 is
upgraded or has been damaged). It may also be possible to detach
the hydrofoil power system 704 from a tray 706 in a similar manner
to the hydrofoil/rigid board attachment/detachment. Unlike the
inflatable board 702 that includes an inflatable portion and
material, the hydrofoil power system 704 can be a rigid device with
the tray 706 that can house one or more batteries, part or all of
the power system (e.g., the power system 112 of FIG. 1), and an
electronics unit including but not limited to any combination of
microcontrollers, an LCD display, a safety kill switch. A hydrofoil
710 (e.g., the hydrofoil 104 of FIG. 1) of the hydrofoil power
system 704 can be coupled to a bottom surface of the tray 706. As
shown in FIG. 7B, the hydrofoil 710 can comprise a strut, a
propulsion pod coupled to the strut, at least two wings coupled to
the propulsion pod, and a propeller system coupled to the
propulsion pod. The propulsion pod may also contain some or all of
the power system. The hydrofoil 710 can also contain one wing
instead of two or more wings.
[0102] Unlike the power system 112 of FIG. 1 that is housed within
the propulsion pod (e.g., the propulsion pod 106), the power system
of the hydrofoil power system 704 can be housed within the tray
706. The tray 706 can be coupled to an adapter 708 that surrounds
the tray 706 and enables the tray 706 to be coupled to the
inflatable board 702. The adapter 708 can have a semi-circular
internal concavity (or a different type of shape) along its
perimeter to enable inflation pressure of the inflatable board 702
to hold in place when the inflatable board 702 is coupled to the
hydrofoil power system 704 via the tray 706 if the tray 706 has a
sharp-cornered shape. In some implementations, the tray 706 has a
semi-circular internal concavity and so the adapter 708 is not
required. The tray 706 can include an electronics unit with a
display (e.g., the electronics unit 602 of FIG. 6) and a handle for
easy transportation. The hydrofoil power system 704 (e.g., via the
tray 706) can include an integrated inflation pump that can inflate
the inflatable board 702. The inflatable board 702 can be inflated
either before or after the coupling together of the inflatable
board 702 and the hydrofoil power system 704.
[0103] FIG. 8 illustrates an example of a jetfoiler 800 with a
wheeled board 802 in accordance with implementations of the present
disclosure. The jetfoiler 800 includes the wheeled board 802
coupled to a hydrofoil 804 (e.g., the hydrofoil 104 of FIG. 1). The
wheeled board 802 can be similar to the board 102 of FIG. 1 or the
board 400 of FIG. 4 with the addition of at least one wheel 806 for
easy transportation. The wheeled board 802 can be dragged or
carried by an operator/rider while the wheeled board 802 is upside
down with the hydrofoil 804 in the air as shown in FIG. 8. In some
implementations, the at least one wheel 806 comprises a pair of
wheels near a perimeter of a top aft portion of the wheeled board
802. In other implementations, the at least one wheel 806 comprises
a single wheel near a center area of the top aft portion of the
wheeled board 802. The at least one wheel 806 can be made of a
variety of materials (e.g., rubber, cushioned material for beach
usage, etc.) and can come in a variety of shapes and sizes and can
be positioned within the wheeled board 802 in a variety of
locations.
[0104] The at least one wheel 806 can be inserted into built-in
slots on the top aft portion of the wheeled board 802. The at least
one wheel 806 can be removable/detachable or can be embedded within
the wheeled board 802 and thus not removable. If the at least one
wheel 806 is not removable, it can be retractable so that it can be
embedded within the wheeled board 802 and then deployed when ready
for usage (i.e., ready to be rolled). If the at least one wheel 806
is removable and can be reattached, the at least one wheel 806 can
snap into place or can be locked via another mechanism including
but not limited to clipping.
[0105] FIG. 9 illustrates an example of a jetfoiler 900 controlled
using a throttle system in accordance with implementations of the
present disclosure. The jetfoiler 900 includes a board 902 (e.g.,
the board 102 of FIG. 1 or the board 400 of FIG. 4) coupled to a
hydrofoil 904 (e.g., the hydrofoil 104 of FIG. 1). An operator
(i.e., rider/user) of the jetfoiler 900 can stand on the board 902
while operating the jetfoiler 900 using the throttle system (also
referred to as a throttle). In FIG. 9, only a top strut portion of
the hydrofoil 904 is shown (i.e., the propulsion pod, embedded
power system, and propeller system are submerged under water). The
throttle comprises a plurality of components including but not
limited to a throttle controller 906 that can be held by the
operator and a throttle cable 908 that is coupled to the throttle
controller 906 on one end and to the board 902 on another end. The
throttle cable 908 connects the throttle controller 906 to the
board 902 via at least one anchor point 910 (also referred to as
throttle cable-board anchor points). The throttle controller 906
can be a variety of types of controllers including but not limited
to a thumb controller, a trigger controller, a wired controller, a
wireless controller (e.g., a controller capable of communicating
wirelessly, and therefore not using the throttle cable 908), a
joystick, and any combination thereof.
[0106] The throttle can be adapted to be operated by a thumb or
other finger of the operator to control operation (e.g., speed,
direction, etc.) of the jetfoiler 900. When the operator engages
(e.g., presses) the throttle controller 906, information is
produced and the information is transmitted to an electronics unit
(e.g., via a microcontroller of the electronics unit) that
generates commands or instructions using the information. Before
reaching the electronics unit, the information can be transmitted
from the throttle controller 906 to a junction box (e.g., the
junction box 502 of FIG. 5) serving as an intermediary device that
then transmits the information to the electronics unit. The
junction box can be an intermediary transmission device or can
simply link wires together that are transmitting the information
between the throttle controller 906 and the electronics unit. The
information can also be transferred wirelessly from the throttle
controller 906 directly (i.e., no junction box or similar
intermediary device and no throttle cable wire necessary) to the
electronics unit. The information can also be transferred in a
wired format from the throttle controller 906 directly (no junction
box or similar intermediary device necessary) to the electronics
unit via the optional throttle cable 908. In response to generating
the commands or instructions using the received information, the
electronics unit transmits the commands or instructions to a motor
controller to control operation of the jetfoiler 900. Therefore,
the jetfoiler 900 is controlled using inputs of the operator that
are received by the throttle controller 906. For example, if the
operator presses a down arrow button of the throttle controller 906
or rocks a dial backward to slow down the speed of the jetfoiler
900, information associated with that action is transmitted to the
electronics unit and then processed into a "slow down command" that
is transmitted to slow the motor down.
[0107] The throttle controller 906 can be similar to an electric
bicycle throttle. The throttle controller 906 can be attached to
the board 902 via the throttle cable 908 to a location in a front
one-third (1/3) of the board 902. The operator may also use the
throttle cable 908 for stability while riding. The throttle cable
908 can be designed with no wire splices and as a continuous wire
that is soldered directly to a sensor of the throttle controller
906 thereby avoiding shorts or water intrusion that could affect
the various inputs (e.g., speed input) provided by the
operator.
[0108] Wires can serve as a communication link from the throttle
controller 906 via the throttle cable 908 and to the
microcontroller of the electronics unit (e.g., the first
microcontroller of the electronics unit 602 of FIG. 6). For
example, a wire can be embedded within or integrated with the
throttle cable 908 and can transmit information from the throttle
controller 906 to the junction box within a well of the board 902
and then another wire can connect the junction box to the
electronics unit with the junction box serving as a connection
between the two wires. The microcontroller can translate the
received information into commands or instructions that are then
transmitted to a motor controller (e.g., an ESC or motor controller
of an electric motor of the power system 112 of FIG. 1) to operate
the jetfoiler 900. The throttle cable 908 can connect the throttle
controller 906 directly to the electronics unit for processing of
the information that generates the commands or instructions used by
the motor thereby bypassing the need for the junction box. In some
implementations, the information produced by the throttle
controller 906 in response to operator interaction (e.g., the rider
pressing on the throttle controller 906) can be wirelessly
communicated either indirectly to a microcontroller in the
electronics unit and then to the motor controller or directly to
the motor controller. In the case of wireless communication, an
additional microcontroller that functions as a transmitter could be
housed in the throttle controller 906.
[0109] In some implementations, the throttle controller 906 is on a
reel leash that allows it to retract into the board 902 and
prevents it from being lost. The throttle can be limited to use up
to a predetermined percentage (e.g., 75%) of maximum available
power to allow the operator more nuances in speed control and to
prevent the operator from exceeding safe speeds (e.g., peak speed
limits). The throttle can be limited differently depending on
whether the board 902 is foiling or not. For example, less power
can be available when the jetfoiler 900 is in non-foiling mode (or
displacement mode) so that the operator must use proper technique
to initiate foiling (or the foiling mode) thereby preserving
battery usage and making the foiling transition gentler for the
operator. Limiting power may also be used to safeguard against
overheating power system components.
[0110] If the throttle controller 906 is a wireless controller, the
throttle cable 908 can be eliminated as one of the components of
the throttle system. A wireless throttle controller may include a
leash to tether it to the board 902 or to the operator. The
wireless throttle controller can still be coupled to the throttle
cable 908 with the throttle cable 908 serving dual functionality
both as a rope when its embedded wiring is not serving as a
communication link and also as the communication link in certain
situations. This would enable operation of the jetfoiler 900 via a
wired communication even when the wireless functionality of the
wireless throttle controller ceases to function (e.g., when the
battery powering the wireless throttle controller has died).
[0111] The throttle controller 906 can include a built-in display
(in addition to or instead of a display mounted in a well of the
board 902). The display provided on the throttle controller 906 can
be easier to read because it is closer to the rider. The throttle
controller 906 can be used to advise the rider of speed, motor rpm,
device health (e.g. battery power, component temperature), and/or
riding efficiency or directions using vibrations, lights, text,
graphics, noises, or any combination thereof. For example, the
throttle controller 906 may vibrate to indicate that the battery
power of the jetfoiler 900 is running low or may display a message
via the display that indicates that the jetfoiler 900 is drawing
too much current.
[0112] The throttle may be limited to multiple pre-determined
settings, depending on operator characteristics. For example, an
operator could choose "beginner", "intermediate", or "expert"
modes, depending on his or her particular skill level which could
alter the speed thresholds set when using the throttle controller
906. Over time, the levels can also gradually increase so that all
users of the jetfoiler 900 must begin at the "beginner" level and
that after a certain number of hours (e.g., determined using the
ride data), the operator can proceed to the next levels. The
throttle can include a safety braking feature (e.g., via the
throttle controller 906) to stop a propeller and/or collapse a
folding propeller. If the throttle controller 906 is wireless, it
may be used to determine whether the operator has fallen (e.g.,
after a wireless connection such as Bluetooth or another data
packet delivery system is lost between the throttle controller 906
and the board 902 because the throttle controller 906 is determined
to be more than a predetermined distance away from the board 902)
to activate an emergency brake.
[0113] The throttle controller 906 can include at least one button
or trigger. In some implementations, the throttle controller 906
only includes one button that can be shifted upwards to increase
speed, downwards to decrease speed. In other implementations, such
a throttle controller may also include functionality to move the
button left and right to navigate the jetfoiler 900 (e.g., by
shifting wing positioning, weight distribution, rotating an
optional rudder, and other features of the jetfoiler 900). In other
implementations, the throttle controller 906 includes two buttons
as a safety feature, both of which must be activated (e.g., pressed
by the rider) to allow the jetfoiler 900 to operate and move. The
throttle can also have a reverse mode to actively enable braking by
the rider which could slow the jetfoiler 900 down without shutting
off the motor.
[0114] FIG. 10A illustrates an example of a jetfoiler 1000
controlled using a handlebar 1002 in a first position 1006 in
accordance with implementations of the present disclosure. The
handlebar 1002 comprises a handlebar coupled to a frame (e.g., a
rigid pole with a single anchor point or with multiple anchor
points) that is coupled to both the handlebar on one end and to a
top surface of a board 1004 of the jetfoiler 1000 on another end.
The handlebar 1002 may also incorporate a throttle system (e.g.,
the throttle system of FIG. 9), either by integrating the throttle
controller (e.g., the throttle controller 906 of FIG. 9), and
throttle controller communication link into the handlebar, or by
providing a clip for a wireless controller to be positioned or
plugged in (e.g. temporarily made wired) while riding the
jetfoiler. An operator of the jetfoiler 1000 can engage the
throttle system from the handlebar 1002 to control the jetfoiler
100.
[0115] The handlebar 1002 can be moved from the first position 1006
to a plurality of other positions for flexibility. FIG. 10B
illustrates an example of the jetfoiler 1000 controlled using the
handlebar 1002 in a second position 1008 in accordance with
implementations of the present disclosure. The second position 1008
produces a smaller angle between the handlebar 1002 and the board
1004 in comparison to a larger angle produced by the first position
1006. The handlebar 1002 can have an adjustable height to match
varying operator heights and can be coupled to the board 1004 via a
plurality of mechanisms including but not limited to a hinge, a
joint, and a ball and socket connection. Additional components can
be coupled to the handlebar 1002 including but not limited to a
display and a container that are each coupled either to the
handlebar or to the frame.
[0116] The handlebar 1002 can provide additional stability for the
operator and can make it easier for the operator to influence a
direction of the board 1004 while operating the jetfoiler 1000. The
handlebar can be mounted to the frame that comprises either a pole
that is similar to poles used on scooters or that comprises a
flexible A-frame. The components of the handlebar 1002 that include
at least the handlebar and the frame can be removable (i.e.,
detachable and attachable). Both wired and wireless throttle
controllers can be made to be removed from the handlebar 1002 and
the frame can be removed from the board 1004. In some
implementations, the frame has an A-frame shape and uses an
hourglass fitting (e.g., made of rubber) to join each leg of the
A-frame shape. The frame can include an emergency release on a
mechanical hinge or magnetic attachment with the board 1004 to
allow the frame to fold and to protect the jetfoiler 1000 and/or
the operator in case of impact or accident. The frame may be
connected to and integrated with a front area of the board 1004.
Additional electronics (e.g., speedometer) may be mounted on or
near the handlebar of the handlebar throttle 1002.
[0117] FIG. 11 illustrates an example of a hydrofoil 1100 of a
jetfoiler in accordance with implementations of the present
disclosure. The hydrofoil 1100 is similar to the hydrofoil 104 of
FIG. 1 and is coupled to a board (e.g., the board 102 of FIG. 1) of
the jetfoiler. The hydrofoil 1100 includes a strut 1102 and an aft
wing 1104 and a forward wing 1106 coupled via a plurality of wing
connection bolts 1108 to a propulsion pod 1110. The hydrofoil 1100
can include fewer or more wings than the aft and the forward wings
1104-1106. The plurality of wing connection bolts 1108 couple the
aft wing 1104 and the forward wing 1106 to the propulsion pod 1110
(e.g., similar to the propulsion pod 106 of FIG. 1) that is
connected to the strut 1102. The strut 1102 can include at least
one wire that can serve as a communication link between the
throttle system (not shown) that enables a rider to control the
jetfoiler and a motor (e.g., an electric motor of a power system
such as the power system 112 of FIG. 1) that controls the jetfoiler
using commands generated based on the received rider adjustments
from the throttle system.
[0118] In some implementations, a communication pathway between a
throttle system (operated by the rider) and a motor of the
jetfoiler is wired and travels between the throttle controller of
the throttle system, a junction box within a well of the board, an
electronics unit within a well (e.g., the same well or a different
well) of the board, the strut 1102 of the hydrofoil 1100, and the
motor of the power system within the propulsion pod 1110. The
junction box and the electronics unit can comprise one on-board
electronics system as opposed to two separate systems. In other
implementations, the communication pathway is wireless and so
adjustments to the throttle system by the rider can be directly
received wirelessly by the electronics unit, which in turn directs
the motor to adjust various aspects of the operation of the
jetfoiler (e.g., speed, direction, etc.). The communication pathway
can also wirelessly link the throttle system to the motor itself
bypassing the need for transmission of information to the
electronics unit.
[0119] A power system comprising a motor (e.g., an electric motor),
a motor controller, and at least one battery can be encapsulated in
a faired shape underwater housing comprising the propulsion pod
1110 that is integrated with the hydrofoil 1100. The strut 1102 can
run approximately perpendicular to the board of the jetfoiler and
may be integrated with the propulsion pod 1110. A top portion or
end of the strut 1102 can fit into a strut slot (e.g., the strut
slot 402 of FIG. 4) of the board and the strut 1102 can be attached
to the board using bolts or a similar mechanism. A location of the
strut slot can be in an aft one-fourth (1/4) of the board. The
strut 1102 can be made of carbon fiber with a foam core, with
spacing to enable at least one wire to run through a length of the
strut 1102 connecting the power system within the propulsion pod
1110 to electronics coupled to the board and in communication with
the throttle controller. The strut 1102 can terminate in the
propulsion pod 1110 and the propulsion pod 1110 can make up a
horizontal segment of the hydrofoil 1100 between the aft and
forward wings 1104-1106.
[0120] FIG. 12 illustrates an example of a hydrofoil 1200 of a
jetfoiler in accordance with implementations of the present
disclosure. The hydrofoil 1200 is coupled to a board (e.g., the
board 102 of FIG. 1) of the jetfoiler. The hydrofoil 1200 includes
a strut 1202, a tray 1204 coupled to one end of the strut 1202, and
a propulsion pod 1206 coupled to the strut 1202. The strut 1202 can
extend below the propulsion pod 1206 and can be coupled to a
fuselage with wings (not shown) that helps steer and stabilize the
jetfoiler. The strut 1202 can have a plurality of dimensions
including but not limited to approximately 35 inches.times.4
inches. The strut 1202 can have a constant chord (e.g., 4.7
inches.times.0.6 inches). The strut 1202 can be tapered (e.g., to
be 4.9 inches long at an end that enters the board and 3.9 inches
at an opposite end that joins the propulsion pod 1206). The tray
1204 can be coupled to the board that is rigid or can be coupled to
the board that is inflatable by using a specialized adapter 1210
that is similar to the adapter 708 of FIG. 7B.
[0121] The tray 1204 can house a power system (e.g., a power system
comprising at least a motor, motor controller, battery, etc.) and
the propulsion pod 1206 can house a set of gears 1208 and be
coupled to a propeller with an optional protective propeller guard
surrounding the propeller (e.g., the propeller 108 and the
propeller guard 110 of FIG. 1). Such a jetfoiler may also use a
board with wells to house the power system, rather than a separate,
board-mounted tray. The set of gears 1208 can comprise a bevel gear
assembly. A first gear of the set of gears 1208 is connected to a
motor stored within the tray 1204 via a driving shaft 1210 (also
referred to as a drive shaft) within the strut 1202. A second gear
of the set of gears 1208 is connected to the propeller via a
propeller shaft 1212 within the propulsion pod 1206 and is in
contact with the first gear of the set of gears 1208. As the motor
runs (e.g., in response to receiving information from the motor
controller to increase speed), the first gear is turned (e.g., at a
faster speed) via the driving shaft 1210 which leads to the turning
of the second gear thereby turning the propeller via the propeller
shaft 1212 to operate the jetfoiler.
[0122] The tray 1204 can include a hole (e.g., a predetermined
opening) that enables the driving shaft 1210 to pass through the
strut 1202 and through the hole for coupling with the motor housed
within the tray 1204. The strut 1202 also enables the driving shaft
1210 to pass through via an internal housing area of the strut
1202. The propulsion pod 1206 can be integrated into the strut 1202
at a location above wings (not shown) of the hydrofoil 1200 instead
of being adjacent to the wings as in the hydrofoil 1100 of FIG. 11.
Therefore, the propulsion pod 1206 is integrated into the strut
1202 at a point closer to the board and a separate horizontal piece
can comprise a fuselage (not shown) part of the hydrofoil 1200 to
position the wings. The fuselage can run parallel to the board and
is coupled to another end of the strut 1202 at roughly a right
angle. In some implementations, the strut 1202 may be integrated
with the fuselage as one component or the strut 1202 may fit into a
slot in the fuselage and be removable.
[0123] In another implementation, a hydrofoil of a jetfoiler is
coupled to a board, wherein the hydrofoil includes a strut and a
propulsion pod coupled to the strut. The strut can extend below the
propulsion pod and can be coupled to a fuselage with wings that
help steer and stabilize the jetfoiler. The strut can have a
plurality of dimensions including but not limited to approximately
31 inches.times.4 inches. The strut can be directly coupled to a
rigid board with one or more wells in it or the strut can be
coupled to a tray that is coupled to the board that is rigid or the
strut can be coupled to the board that is inflatable by using a
specialized adapter that is similar to the adapter 708 of FIG. 7B.
The propulsion pod can contain a motor, a gearbox if one is used,
and a propeller shaft. The propulsion pod can also contain the
motor controller, but the motor controller may be housed in the
board instead. The batteries and electronics unit can be housed in
the board wells or in the tray, if a tray is used.
[0124] The wings can comprise aft and forward wings that are
similar to the aft and the forward wings 1104-1106 of FIG. 11. The
wings of the hydrofoil 1200 can attach to the fuselage instead of
to the propulsion pod 1206. The wings can be attached either as an
integrated piece or in a removable way. The wings can be made from
carbon fiber and can be designed to be easily removable,
replaceable, and spaced differently (e.g., using bolts). The wings
provide lift and stability during operation of the jetfoiler. Wing
removal can not only be used for repair and replacement purposes
(i.e., when a wing is damaged it is replaced), but can also be used
to enable one jetfoiler to be used by riders of varying abilities
and/or profiles (e.g., different wing types and combinations enable
an advanced tall rider and a beginner short rider to use the same
jetfoiler). This enables a rider to use the same jetfoiler as
he/she increases in expertise level by modifying the wings of the
jetfoiler. The wings can come in a variety of shapes including
having curved edges that curve upwards and/or downwards (in
addition to other curved orientations). The wings can include flaps
that provide the curved edges.
[0125] Relative angles of incidence of the wings of the jetfoiler
and the distance between the aft wing 116 and the forward wing 118
affect whether or not the jetfoiler is set up for "high
performance" (i.e., an advanced or expert level rider) or for "low
performance" (i.e., a beginner level rider). For example,
higher-aspect-ratio wings spaced closer together will yield a
higher performance result whereas lower-aspect-ratio wings spaced
further apart will yield a lower performance result. A higher
performance result means that the board of the jetfoiler will be
more maneuverable and faster but that the margin of error for
maintaining foiling stability will be lower. A lower performance
result means that the board of the jetfoiler will be more forgiving
of a rider by over/under correcting for instability and thus would
be easier to ride. The positioning of the wings will determine
where the center of lift is positioned when the jetfoiler is in
foiling mode. Perceived wing location is a consideration when
determining the location of the strut slot during jetfoiler
manufacturing. When an end user is moving the jetfoiler wings to
adjust performance results, it may be desirable to position the
forward wing close to the strut or to make other adjustments to
position the wings so that the center of lift when the jetfoiler is
in foiling mode aligns with the center of buoyancy when the
jetfoiler is in displacement mode.
[0126] A wave produced by a surface-piercing strut of the jetfoiler
(e.g., the strut 114 of FIG. 1, the strut 1102 of FIG. 11, the
strut 1202 of FIG. 12) piles up along a backside of the jetfoiler,
continuing upward and sideways into the air, creating a spray.
Spray drag is a significant portion of the strut's overall drag but
can be used to the jetfoiler's advantage. In configurations where
some of the power system is not located under water within the
propulsion pod of the jetfoiler, the strut spray can hit an
optional board heat sink located on a bottom surface of the board
to provide cooling of any of the components of the power system of
the jetfoiler (e.g. motor controller, batteries). In addition, the
power system can be cooled using water coolant that is taken into
the strut below the surface of the water and then pumped upward
through the strut and to the power system.
[0127] A hydrofoil of a jetfoiler (e.g., the hydrofoil 104 of FIG.
1, the hydrofoil 1100 of FIG. 11, the hydrofoil 1200 of FIG. 12)
may be detachable from the board (that is either rigid or
inflatable) in such a way that multiple boards can be used with one
hydrofoil (i.e., the same hydrofoil). The hydrofoil can pivot to
fold for storage or transport. The hydrofoil can have movable
control surfaces (e.g., adjustable foil flaps coupled to hydrofoil
wing areas) that can be adjusted to change sectional shape of the
lifting surface for performance considerations (e.g., stability).
The movable control surfaces can be coupled to either the aft wing
or the forward wing. The movable control surfaces can be coupled to
a backend or a frontend of the wings or different areas. The
movable control surfaces (i.e., flaps) can span the entire wing or
just predetermined portions of the wing. The movable control
surfaces can include a pushrod mechanism that actuates flap
movement of the movable control surface. Moving an adjustable foil
flap (also referred to as a flap or a control flap) that makes up
the aft part of a hydrofoil wing (i.e., an aft control flap), for
example, will change the sectional shape of the wing. Such a
moveable control surface on the aft hydrofoil wing will adjust the
trim/pitch of the jetfoiler. For example, if the flap on the aft
wing of the jetfoiler can pivot so the trailing edge is pointing
downward, the jetfoiler nose with raise, and the jetfoiler will
climb upward, higher above the surface of the water. If the flap on
the aft wing of the jetfoiler can pivot so that the trailing edge
is pointing upward, the jetfoiler nose will point down toward the
surface of the water, and the jetfoiler will pitch forward if that
flap angle is maintained. Such an aft control flap can be adjusted
in a variety of ways including but not limited to an inertial
measurement unit (IMU), a "ride height" sensor, a mechanical wand,
or a similar mechanism.
[0128] An IMU can measure the angle of the board and adjust the
flap to maintain a certain board angle, using a gyroscope or
similar device. A "ride height" sensor (e.g., an ultrasonic sensor)
can measure the distance between the board and the surface of the
water and adjust the flap to maintain a certain riding height above
the water. A mechanical sensor (e.g., a wand trailing from the nose
of the jetfoiler board) can measure waves on the surface of the
water and adjust the flap directly using a cable or other
mechanical device to cause the jetfoiler to react to the waves and
maintain a steady board. A moveable control surface on the forward
hydrofoil (i.e., a forward control flap) will adjust the overall
"ride height" of the jetfoiler so that the ride height will stay
constant but the jetfoiler will ride higher or lower above the
surface of the water, according to the position of the forward
control flap, which changes the amount of lift generated by the
wing. Such a forward control flap can be adjusted by the rider
moving a joystick or other control mechanism or by the rider
inputting a number that corresponds with a certain height above the
water.
[0129] In some implementations, aft and the forward wings (e.g.,
the aft and the forward wings 1104-1106 of FIG. 11) and additional
wings of the jetfoiler can also be movable control surfaces that
are adjusted in addition to the movable control surfaces comprising
adjustable foil flaps. The movable control surfaces can be coupled
to the propulsion pod in addition to wings or can be coupled to
other areas of the hydrofoil including but not limited to the strut
or the propulsion pod itself. The movable control surfaces can be
intelligently computer driven (e.g., using a machine learning
mechanism that automatically adjusts the movable control surfaces
based on various conditions and associated data detected using
sensors such as MEMS devices of the jetfoiler) that automatically
compensates for speed and rider weight and ability to control
(e.g., adjust speed, steer, and/or stabilize) the jetfoiler. The
movable control surfaces can also be manually operated/changed by
the rider (e.g., using a throttle controller) based on various
operator needs.
[0130] The jetfoiler can use an accelerometer, a gyroscope, an
inertial-measurement unit (IMU), or any other type of feedback loop
control device (e.g., other MEMS devices) to provide a
self-stabilizing mechanism that stabilizes riding by modulating
power from the batteries to stabilize the board during varying
conditions (e.g., when the rider requests assistance, or
automatically as a response to waves). The stabilization device can
also be used to determine if the board has tipped over or has hit
something solid which could trigger a response to stop the
propeller and the motor from operating and bring the jetfoiler to
an emergency stop.
[0131] FIG. 13 illustrates an example of a propulsion pod 1300 of a
jetfoiler in accordance with implementations of the present
disclosure. The propulsion pod 1300 is similar to the propulsion
pod 106 of FIG. 1. The propulsion pod 1300 is coupled to a strut of
a hydrofoil (e.g., the hydrofoil 1100 of FIG. 11) of the jetfoiler.
The propulsion pod 1300 includes a housing 1302, a nose cone 1304
coupled to the housing 1302 using a nose cone sealing ring 1306 and
at least one bolting mechanism or similar mechanism (e.g., a
threaded screw attachment), and a heat sink 1308 coupled to the
housing 1302. The heat sink 1308 can be an optional component. When
the propulsion pod 1300 is made of aluminum, the propulsion pod
1300 can act as a heat sink, dissipating heat. When the propulsion
pod 1300 is made of another material (e.g., carbon), it may be
desirable to include a heat sink panel made of aluminum or some
other material with similar heat dissipating qualities. The nose
cone sealing ring 1306 can comprise an aluminum nose cone sealing
ring with at least one O-ring (e.g., three silicone O-rings).
[0132] At least one camera can be embedded within the nose cone
1304 to enable a rider of the jetfoiler to record underwater during
operation of the jetfoiler. The at least one camera can be a
variety of different camera types including point-of-view (POV)
cameras or 360 degree cameras with zoom capabilities. The at least
one camera can be coupled to the nose cone 1304 using a camera
clip. The nose cone 1304 can have at least one opening to enable
the coupling of the at least one camera using the camera clip. A
camera window can be coupled to the nose cone 1304 to protect the
at least one camera by serving as an anti-scratch shield and by
providing a waterproof seal. The at least one camera can be coupled
to other electronics components of the jetfoiler (e.g., an
electronics unit coupled within a well of a board of the jetfoiler)
via wiring that is also housed within the nose cone 1304 or via
wireless mechanisms.
[0133] The housing 1302 of the propulsion pod 1300 can also include
an access panel to enable access to a power system (e.g., the power
system 112 of FIG. 1) that is housed within the propulsion pod
1300. A propeller system comprising a propeller and a propeller
guard (e.g., the propeller 108 and the propeller guard 110 of FIG.
1) can also be coupled to the propulsion pod 1300 on an end that is
close to the internal power system or another area of the
propulsion pod 1300. A close proximity between the propeller system
and the power system enables the motor of the power system to more
efficiently control the propeller during operation of the
jetfoiler. The area of the propulsion pod 1300 that houses the
power system that includes a motor can be referred to as a motor
housing area of the propulsion pod 1300 that is differentiated from
the housing 1302 that represents a main body area of the propulsion
pod 1300.
[0134] A propulsion pod (e.g., the propulsion pod 106 of FIG. 1 or
the propulsion pod 1300 of FIG. 13) is a component of a hydrofoil
of a jetfoiler. The propulsion pod is an underwater housing that
can have a faired bulb-shape and a hollow interior. The propulsion
pod is part of a structure of the hydrofoil and allows a propeller
(coupled to the propulsion pod) to join the structure of the
hydrofoil in a hydrodynamic way. The propulsion pod is designed to
minimize drag and wetted area while remaining large enough to house
necessary components which may include but are not limited to
cameras, power systems, and associated wiring. To minimize drag
while retaining a shape that is simple to manufacture, a forward
section of the propulsion pod can have an elliptical shape while an
aft section can have a smooth arc.
[0135] The shape of the propulsion pod can be determined by seeking
a pressure distribution that smoothly increases with no spikes for
as far aft as possible and that then smoothly recovers. The
pressure distribution can be determined using a pressure
distribution curve that is used to determine optimal propulsion pod
shape that is rendered using the optimized propulsion pod shape.
The chosen propulsion pod shape can be varied based on a variety of
factors including but not limited to rider information (e.g.,
weight and skill level) and jetfoiler performance requirements.
FIG. 14 illustrates an example of an optimized propulsion pod shape
1400 in accordance with implementations of the present disclosure.
The optimized propulsion pod shape 1400 is determined for graphical
rendition using a pressure distribution curve 1402.
[0136] If the propulsion pod has a more cylindrical shape with a
nose cone and a tail cone, it can cause a low pressure spike where
the cylinder and the cones meet. A shape that has a more continuous
curve, like that shown in FIG. 14, can produce less hydrodynamic
drag, even though it is larger in volume, because it does create
such a low pressure spike. It may not be practical for
manufacturing purposes to make an optimized propulsion pod shape,
because creating that curve might add more weight. For example, if
the propulsion pod is made out of aluminum, made out of a material
with more heat insulation, or made out of carbon and foam core
materials, a streamlined airfoil shape might be heavier or more
challenging to manufacture than a cylindrical shape.
[0137] Accordingly, the optimized propulsion pod shape 1400 can be
more determined by the diameter and length of the pod components
(e.g., the motor and potentially the gearbox and motor controller).
An arrangement of propulsion pod components can determine an
optimal balance between streamline airfoil shape and sustained
cylindrical shape. The positioning of the propulsion pod vis-a-vis
the strut is also affected by hydrodynamic concerns. Placing the
propulsion pod directly under the strut or forward of the strut,
rather than aft of the strut, may make the jetfoiler easier to turn
as it moves the propeller closer to the strut, and the strut acts
as a pivot point of the jetfoiler. If the propeller is positioned
too close to the strut, however, it may cause an undesirable
pressure spike, effectively making such a design a greater source
of drag.
[0138] The entire power system of the jetfoiler can be housed
within the propulsion pod which contributes to rider stability by
consolidating weight below the surface of the water, rather than
adding more weight within the board of the jetfoiler. Housing
components of the power system (e.g., motor, motor controller,
battery, etc.) adjacent to one another provides a more efficient
system with shorter wiring runs between the various components. The
propulsion pod can be made of carbon fiber with a detachable nose
cone (e.g., the nose cone 1304 of FIG. 13) and foil attachment hard
points. In some implementations, the propulsion pod includes short
pylons that allow wings (e.g., aft and forward wings) to be mounted
below the propulsion pod and therefore, below the propeller. The
propulsion pod can include an access panel for ease of changing the
internally housed components. A heat sink (e.g., the heat sink 1308
of FIG. 13) can be coupled to the propulsion pod that also provides
access to the internal housing. When closed, the heat sink can be
in direct contact with the motor controller to dissipate heat into
the water and to prevent the motor controller from overheating.
[0139] The detachable nose cone provides a hydrodynamic shape and
an access point to insert and remove internal components of the
propulsion pod such as the battery. The propulsion pod can
eliminate the need for the access panel by using the access
provided by the detachable nose cone. The nose cone can have a
built-in POV camera that is held in place behind a camera window
using a camera clip. The nose cone includes a rotation detail that
allows the nose cone to lock in different orientations for
different camera positioning. The propulsion pod can have a
plurality of dimensions including but not limited to approximately
34 inches.times.6 inches.times.4 inches.
[0140] In some implementations, the propulsion pod is coupled to
the strut of the hydrofoil high above the wings, instead of acting
as an attachment point for the wings. Mounting the propeller higher
than the wings results in the propeller exiting the water before
the wings if the rider foils too high. The propulsion pod can also
house fewer power system components to make it lighter and smaller
with less wetted area. For example, the propulsion pod can house a
gear assembly (e.g., the set of gears 1208 of FIG. 12) to translate
motor rotation into propeller rotation enabling the electric motor
and the battery and associated components to be mounted to the
board via a tray (e.g., the tray 1204 of FIG. 12), where a driving
shaft (e.g., the driving shaft 1210 of FIG. 12) can extend from the
motor through a passage in the strut to the set of gears to drive
the propeller via a propeller shaft (e.g., the propeller shaft 1212
of FIG. 12).
[0141] Alternatively, in other implementations, the propulsion pod
that is coupled to the strut of the hydrofoil above the wings, can
house part of the power system (e.g., motor, gearbox, etc.), rather
than the whole power system and rather than the gear assembly. When
using a smaller propulsion pod to reduce wetted area and place the
propeller above the hydrofoil wings, part of the power system can
be housed in the board. While placing the heaviest components
(e.g., batteries) in the propulsion pod may make the jetfoiler more
stable to ride, placing weight in the board also has advantages.
For example, more weight in the board/less weight in the propulsion
pod can make the jetfoiler easier to turn. Adding more components
to the board does not increase the board size, but adding
components to the propulsion pod can increase the propulsion pod
size. The propulsion pod may be positioned so that the bulk of its
mass is forward of the strut, aft of the strut, or directly in line
with the strut. The positioning of the propulsion pod vis-a-vis the
strut will affect the proximity of the propeller to the strut and
the weight distribution of the propulsion pod, both of which will
affect rider positioning. Instead of being coupled along the strut,
the propulsion pod can also join the hydrofoil at another point
along a fuselage including but not limited to above an aft wing of
the jetfoiler.
[0142] The propulsion pod can have an integrated air-circulating
bilge pump to cool the motor and/or motor controller and to remove
any water that may have entered during operation. Linear water
sensor strips can be coupled throughout the propulsion pod or the
tray that houses the power system or other areas of the jetfoiler
to detect water intrusion. The placement of the linear water sensor
strips can be near seams and seals and along bottom surfaces of the
propulsion pod and/or the tray. If water is detected, a battery
contactor can open and trigger an indication of error on a display
(e.g., the display unit 604 of FIG. 6) which can shut down the
jetfoiler. Water pressure sensors can also be coupled to the
propulsion pod to detect a depth of the propeller. The depth
information can be used to detect a "ride height" of the board of
the jetfoiler. The water pressure sensors can be used to modulate
power coming from the motor to keep the hydrofoil from ventilating
thereby preventing the jetfoiler from spinning out of the water.
The propulsion pod can be pressurized by a pressurization machine
to check for leaks. Pressure sensors can be provided to measure the
pressure produced and a smart system can be provided within the
jetfoiler to advise the operator/rider regarding whether the
pressure measured holds the jetfoiler within the water and the
jetfoiler is thus safe to put in the water for operation.
[0143] In some implementations, a propulsion pod that houses part
of the power system (e.g., motor, gearbox, motor controller, etc.)
can be made of a material such as aluminum that dissipates heat, so
that the whole propulsion pod acts as a heat sink, cooling the
inside components as the jetfoiler passes through water.
Alternatively, the propulsion pod may be made from carbon fiber or
a similar material and have a heat sink panel, similar to the
propulsion pod 1300 of FIG. 13. The propulsion pod may also include
some components of the electronics unit including but not limited
to a microcontroller (e.g., a microcontroller used to monitor
propulsion pod temperature). The propulsion pod can be smaller in
size and can have a variety of sizes including but not limited to a
size of 13.5 inches in length and 2.5 inches in diameter. Size and
shape can be determined by interior components (e.g., motor
diameter, whether or not motor controller or microcontroller is
included), but may also be determined by hydrodynamic concerns such
as pressure distribution.
[0144] In addition, the propulsion pod can utilize a threaded
mechanism to allow both the nose cone and the motor housing to
screw on and off of the central unit or main body of the propulsion
pod. The propulsion pod can use O-rings (e.g., silicone O-rings) to
make the threaded connections watertight. This can improve ease of
servicing and assembly of the propulsion pod by providing easier
access to propulsion pod components and by making it easier to
assemble parts (propulsion pod, motor, motor controller) made in
different factories. The central unit of the propulsion pod may
have faired attachment points on both or either the top and bottom
of the propulsion pod, to allow the propulsion pod to detach from
the strut. This can be used only for ease of manufacturing, where
the propulsion pod is made from a different material than the strut
(e.g., aluminum and carbon fiber, respectively), and each could be
made in a different factory and then assembled, perhaps permanently
together. Alternatively, the propulsion pod can be detachable as a
feature for end users, for ease of servicing the jetfoiler parts
separately and to allow riders to use different propulsion pods
(and thus, different motors) with the same strut, or different
struts with the same propulsion pod, in order to have riders with
different abilities or personal characteristics use the same
device.
[0145] FIG. 15A illustrates an example of a power system 1500 of a
jetfoiler in accordance with implementations of the present
disclosure. The power system 1500 can be housed within a propulsion
pod of a hydrofoil of the jetfoiler (e.g., similar to the power
system 112 of FIG. 1) or the power system 1500 can be housed within
a tray coupled to a strut of the hydrofoil of the jetfoiler (e.g.,
similar to the power system within the tray 1204 of FIG. 12) or the
power system 1500 can be housed within a well of the board. The
power system 1500 includes an access panel 1502, a heat sink 1504
coupled to the access panel 1502, a motor controller 1506 coupled
to the heat sink 1504, a motor system 1508 coupled to the motor
controller 1506, and a propeller shaft 1510 coupled to the motor
system 1508. In some implementations, the power system 1500 does
not include either the access panel 1502 and/or the heat sink 1504
and in other implementations, the heat sink 1504, the motor
controller 1506, and a battery may be housed elsewhere (e.g., in
the board) from the motor system 1508 and a propeller shaft (e.g.,
in the propulsion pod). The motor system 1508 can comprise a motor
coupled to and powered by a battery, and a gearbox coupled to the
motor for increasing the torque of the motor. The motor system 1508
is controlling a propeller (e.g., the propeller 108 of FIG. 1) via
the propeller shaft 1510. The motor of the motor system 1508 can
comprise any of an electric motor, a gas-powered motor, a
solar-powered motor, other types of motors, and any combination
thereof.
[0146] The motor controller 1506 can be located inside the
propulsion pod, aft of the motor of the motor system 1508, in
contact with the heat sink 1504, and adjacent to the battery. The
motor controller 1506 can also be located inside the propulsion
pod, aft of the motor of the motor system 1508, that is made of
aluminum or a similar material so that the whole pod acts as a heat
sink. The motor controller 1506 can also be located inside the
board, in the second well or in the tray with adapter, adjacent to
a heat sink. The power system 1500 can also include one or more
sensors including but not limited to digital temperature sensors
which can be coupled to the motor, the motor controller 1506, the
battery or batteries, and other components of the power system 1500
to gauge various temperatures and to determine whether the
components are working properly. The temperatures that the digital
temperature sensors detect can be shown on a display (e.g., the
display 604 of FIG. 6) of the jetfoiler or on a display on the
throttle and can appear in test logs (e.g., test logs that are part
of the ride data). The digital temperature sensors can also be used
to trigger warning signals or a device shut-off of either the
jetfoiler or various components of the jetfoiler (e.g.,
electronics) for rider safety.
[0147] The propeller shaft 1510 can exit the motor system 1508 and
can accept a propeller of the propeller system. The propeller shaft
1510 is supported by bearings that are capable of taking thrust and
other loads that the propeller can generate. The propeller shaft
1510 can also take loads generated by a driving shaft (e.g., the
driving shaft 1210 of FIG. 12). Propellers of different sizes and
shapes can be attached to the propeller shaft 1510.
[0148] FIG. 15B illustrates an example of the motor system 1508 of
the power system 1500 of the jetfoiler in accordance with
implementations of the present disclosure. The motor system 1508
includes a motor 1512, a gearbox 1514 coupled to the motor, and the
propeller shaft 1510 coupled to the gearbox 1514. The motor 1512 is
housed within a motor housing 1516 (shown separately). The motor
housing 1516 surrounds the motor 1512 for protection. The gearbox
1514 increases the torque of the motor 1512 while reducing rpm. Use
of the gearbox 1514 provides more motor options, which can assist
with, for example, propulsion pod size requirements, which may
determine motor dimensions. In some implementations, the motor
system 1508 does not include the gearbox 1514 and the motor 1512
directly controls the propeller system. For example, a high
torque/lower rpm constant (K.sub.v) motor can be used to drive the
propeller using less or no gearing (e.g., 200 K.sub.v motor, no
gearbox).
[0149] The motor system 1508 can be activated or controlled by
receiving instructions from the motor controller 1506 to control
the propeller of the propeller system. For example, when an
operator of the jetfoiler presses a throttle controller,
information (e.g., increase speed of the jetfoiler) is generated
and processed into a command (e.g., processed by an electronics
unit coupled to a board of the jetfoiler) that is then transmitted
to the motor controller 1506. Once the command is received by the
motor controller 1506, the motor controller 1506 controls operation
of the motor 1512 thereby turning the operation of the propeller
system. If the command received by the motor controller 1506
comprises increasing jetfoiler speed, the motor 1512 will adjust to
speed up the spinning of the propeller thereby enabling the
jetfoiler to go faster.
[0150] The motor system 1508 can also include a battery system
comprising one or more batteries for powering the motor 1512. The
battery system can include a sliding battery that is coupled to a
battery sled for easy sliding into the propulsion pod and for
connection to both the motor controller 1506 and the motor 1512.
The battery sled allows a user to easily remove the battery for
charging and to reinsert the battery without having to reconnect
battery wires directly to the motor controller 1506 and/or the
motor 1512. The battery sled can be made from carbon fiber, can
include control wires, and can have an integrated self-locating
connector on its aft end. The self-locating connector can have a
cone shape which helps guide the self-locating connector into place
as the battery sled is inserted into the propulsion pod. Once the
battery sled is inserted into the propulsion pod, the integrated
self-locating connector connects the battery (and/or the control
wires) to circuitry of the motor controller 1506 and/or the motor
1512.
[0151] The battery sled can load with batteries upright when the
jetfoiler is on its side. This orientation facilitates a battery
swap performed by a single person and/or a battery swap performed
on a moving surface like a boat dock because the jetfoiler is
stably positioned on its side without any specialized equipment.
FIG. 15C illustrates an example of a battery system 1550 of the
motor system 1508 in accordance with implementations of the present
disclosure. The battery system 1550 includes a battery sled 1552, a
battery 1554 coupled to the battery sled 1552, and a self-locating
connector 1556 coupled to an end of the battery sled 1552. The
self-locating connector 1556 connects the battery 1554 to circuitry
of the power system 1500. More than one battery can be coupled to
the battery sled 1552.
[0152] In some implementations, and referring to FIGS. 15A-15C, the
motor controller 1506 can be a 160 A motor controller, the motor
1512 can be a 500 Kv motor running at 58 V, the gearbox 1514 can be
a 4:1 gearbox or a 8:1 gearbox, the battery 1554 of the battery
system 1550 can comprise two lithium polymer (LiPo) batteries
connected in series using 8- or 10- or 12-gauge battery wire. The
power system 1500 comprises the motor system 1508 and the battery
system 1550 and can be housed in a tray of the hydrofoil or a well
of the board instead of being housed within the propulsion pod. The
battery system 1550 can include other types of batteries including
but not limited to a lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) or lithium
ion (LiIon) batteries or any combination thereof.
[0153] In some implementations, instead of removing the battery
sled (e.g., the battery sled 1552 of FIG. 15C) to enable charging
of the one or more batteries (e.g., the battery 1554 of FIG. 15C),
one or more batteries can be locked into any of the propulsion pod,
the board, and the tray of the hydrofoil (also referred to as a
foil tray). The user could then plug the entire jetfoiler into a
charging device for charging of the one or more batteries. This
configuration provides a safety advantage as the user does not need
to handle the batteries, but it adds complexity to the charging
process since the entire jetfoiler needs to be transported for
charging. This configuration also prevents an operator/rider from
conducting long riding sessions or swapping riders, which may
require mid-session battery changes while on the water. In other
implementations, the battery system is housed above the water
(e.g., within a well of the board of the jetfoiler or within a foil
tray of the jetfoiler) and is connected via battery wires through
the strut and to the motor system 1508. This would enable easy
changing and charging of the one or more batteries. An auxiliary
battery in addition to the one or more batteries of the battery
system can be provided within the jetfoiler (e.g., within the
board) to serve as a spare battery when the one or more batteries
of the battery system need to be swapped out or replaced.
[0154] The one or more batteries of the battery system can be
housed in the propulsion pod in a way that is more contained in
comparison to housing the one or more batteries within the battery
sled while still providing for removal of the one or more batteries
from the hydrofoil. For example, battery packs can be configured
with a safety feature that does not allow the battery packs to be
activated until a signal has been received. The signal can be sent
to activate the battery pack after the jetfoiler has checked water
sensors and other safety sensors and operation of the jetfoiler is
authorized. The battery packs can be used for the jetfoiler and can
be used with other devices similar to the jetfoiler.
[0155] The jetfoiler can include various messaging for states
(i.e., "OK" status messages) of the motor controller (e.g., the
motor controller 1506 of FIG. 15A) and the battery (e.g., the
battery 1554 of FIG. 15C) and other components of the power system
1500 to determine whether the power system 1500 or any of its
components are functioning normally. For example, the motor
controller and the battery can monitor and exchange status messages
internally via a serial data link. If the battery loses contact
with the motor controller, a battery contactor coupled to the
battery can be opened. When the battery contactor is opened, the
battery cannot power the motor and so operation of the jetfoiler
will cease. Thus, any time that the battery is not plugged into a
working motor controller (i.e., when the battery loses contact with
the motor controller), the jetfoiler can be configured so that the
battery does not output any significant voltage so that the
jetfoiler can be launched in the water without any issues (i.e.,
issues can arise if the battery is powering the motor while a user
is loading the jetfoiler into the water). In some implementations,
the user can activate a loading mode (e.g., using the throttle
system or removing an emergency stop (e-stop) key) that disables
the motor controller while the user loads the jetfoiler into the
water.
[0156] A ground-fault detector can also be implemented into the
jetfoiler to check for continuity between battery leads of the
battery and a carbon body of the hydrofoil. There should be no
continuity which could lead to current flow potentially running
through the water and to the rider. Therefore, if continuity is
detected, the battery contactor can once again be opened and an
error message can be generated on the display which can persist
until the continuity issue is resolved with verification (e.g., the
ground-fault detector verifies no continuity) or manually cleared
by the user. In addition, an electric current sensor can be used to
measure power consumption of the jetfoiler and to stop the motor
(e.g., the motor 1512 of FIG. 15B) if there is a locked or damaged
rotor. The electric current sensor can be used to detect when the
motor is trying to spin in free air which would produce a low
current and a high speed (instead of spinning in the water as
desired) thereby stopping or limiting the motor. The low current
and high speed levels can be determined using predetermined
thresholds.
[0157] FIG. 16 illustrates a propeller system 1600 of a jetfoiler
in accordance with implementations of the present disclosure. The
propeller system 1600 includes a propeller 1602 comprising two or
more propeller blades 1604 and a propeller guard 1606 surrounding
the propeller 1602. The propeller 1602 can have a variety of
dimensions including but not limited to a diameter of 4 to 16
inches. The propeller system 1600 can be coupled to a propulsion
pod (e.g., the propulsion pod 106 of FIG. 1 or the propulsion pod
1300 of FIG. 13) that is in turn coupled to a strut of a hydrofoil
or hydrofoil strut (e.g., the strut 114 of the hydrofoil 104 of
FIG. 1 or the strut 1102 of the hydrofoil 1100 of FIG. 11) of the
jetfoiler. The propeller 1602 and the propeller guard 1606 can be
separately coupled to the propulsion pod or the propeller guard
1606 can be coupled to the propeller 1602 that is coupled to the
propulsion pod via an attachment mechanism. The propeller guard
1606 may also be integrated into the propulsion pod or the
hydrofoil wings.
[0158] The two or more propeller blades 1604 attach to the
propulsion pod via a propeller shaft (e.g., the propeller shaft
1510 of FIG. 15A). The propeller 1602 can be mounted either forward
or aft of the propulsion pod and either forward or aft of the
hydrofoil strut. The propeller 1602 can be optimized for a
predetermined knot (e.g., 15-knot) cruise performance with a
predetermined input power (e.g., 3725 watts or approximately 5
horsepower) at a predetermined propeller rpm (e.g., 4000 propeller
rpm). In some implementations, the jetfoiler can include a ducted
propeller with a shape that tailors a pitch distribution of the
ducted propeller instead of the propeller system 1600. The ducted
propeller includes a propeller that is fitted with a water intake
nozzle that is non-rotating and increases the efficiency of the
propeller. The ducted propeller can be positioned either above or
below a fuselage and wings of the hydrofoil.
[0159] The propeller guard 1606 can act as a safety feature. The
propeller guard 1606 can be bolted to a top and bottom surface (or
to only one surface) of the propulsion pod, extending past the
motor housing and shielding the two or more propeller blades 1604.
The propeller guard can function as a duct to provide the ducted
propeller and is tailored to the propeller system 1600 to increase
efficiency and operation of the jetfoiler. The propeller guard 1606
can improve efficiency of the propeller system 1600 at low speeds
(e.g., below approximately 10 knots). The propeller guard 1606 can
have a varied section to provide lift/stability and can function as
an aft hydrofoil wing. The propeller guard 1606 can have a variety
of dimensions including but not limited to approximately an 8-inch
diameter.
[0160] The jetfoiler can spin the propeller 1602 in different
directions, depending on rider style (e.g., one style for "goofy"
and another for "regular" riding styles). In the absence of other
forces, a board of the jetfoiler will roll in a direction opposite
of the direction that the propeller 1602 is spinning, and the
operator/rider must react to that force by pushing down with the
rider's weight to stabilize the board. As the rider accelerates or
operates the jetfoiler to go faster, the rider has to push down
more to balance these forces. It is ideal for rider comfort to
enable the rider to push with toes instead of heels and so the toes
(instead of the heels) can be positioned near an edge of the board
via a footstrap mechanism or another strapping mechanism.
[0161] When spinning the propeller 1602 in one direction, the
jetfoiler will be easier to ride for a certain rider style and
harder to ride for the opposite rider style. The larger the
propeller 1602 and the more torque applied by a motor (e.g., the
motor 1512 of FIG. 15B) of the jetfoiler, the more pronounced the
effect of the spinning direction of the propeller 1602 on rider
ease of use. The jetfoiler can include an option to change the
spinning direction of the propeller 1602 to make it possible for
riders of numerous styles (e.g., "goofy", "regular", etc.) to use
the same jetfoiler with a comfortable stance. The option can be
controlled via a throttle controller engaged by the rider (e.g.,
switching a setting from one style to another when starting the
jetfoiler) and that is in communication with a motor controller
(e.g., the motor controller 1506 of FIG. 15A) via an electronics
unit (e.g., the electronics unit 602 of FIG. 6). Based on received
information or commands, the motor controller can change the
direction of the spinning of the propeller 1602 by changing the
direction of the torque applied by the motor coupled to the motor
controller. In some implementations, the jetfoiler can include two
propellers that are mounted in-line and spinning counter clockwise
and clockwise respectively to eliminate torque roll and to
stabilize a board of the jetfoiler by speeding up and slowing down
each of the two propellers.
[0162] FIG. 17 illustrates an example 1700 of matching propeller
spinning directions with rider stance during operation of a
jetfoiler in accordance with implementations of the present
disclosure. The propeller spinning directions can be changed by
changing a direction of the rotation of the propeller (e.g., the
propeller 108 of FIG. 1 or the propeller 1602 of FIG. 16). Changing
the propeller spinning directions to match rider style improves
rider stance and ease of ride. The example 1700 includes a first
matching 1702, a second matching 1704, and a third matching 1706
that each highlight various configurations between the propeller
spinning direction and the rider stance. In the first matching
1702, a rider with a "regular" stance is correctly matched with a
"regular" propeller spinning direction to provide ease of use. The
propeller spinning direction of the first matching 1702 creates a
force in one direction that is counterbalanced by a weighted force
from the "regular" rider stance that positions the rider's feet
towards an edge of a board of the jetfoiler.
[0163] In the second matching 1704, a rider with a "goofy" stance
is incorrectly matched with a "regular" propeller spinning
direction which may cause issues during the operation of the
jetfoiler. The propeller spinning direction of the second matching
1704 creates a force in the same direction as aforementioned for
the first matching 1702 but this force is not counterbalanced by a
weighted force from the "goofy" rider stance that positions the
rider's feet towards a center of the board. Therefore, the
propeller spinning direction and the rider stance should be matched
in accordance with the third matching 1706 that reverses a spinning
direction of the propeller to counterbalance the weighted force
from the "goofy" rider stance that positions the rider's feet
towards an opposite edge of the board. Additional propeller
spinning directions can be utilized by the jetfoiler to
counterbalance different rider styles that are not categorized as
"regular" or "goofy".
[0164] FIG. 18 illustrates an example of a folding propeller blades
1800 of a propeller system of a jetfoiler in accordance with
implementations of the present disclosure. The folding propeller
blades 1800 can be used to improve safety and reduce drag thereby
prolonging battery life. The folding propeller blades 1800 are
coupled to a propeller shaft that is coupled to a motor that is
coupled to a propulsion pod (e.g., the propulsion pod 106 of FIG. 1
or the propulsion pod 1302 of FIG. 13) that is coupled to a
hydrofoil (e.g., the hydrofoil 104 of FIG. 1) of the jetfoiler. The
folding propeller blades 1800 comprise two or more propeller blades
(e.g., the two or more propeller blades 1604 of FIG. 16). The
folding propeller blades 1800 can be oriented in a first unfolded
position 1802 and in a second folded position 1804. The folding
propeller blades 1800 can be oriented in additional positions not
shown (e.g., positions in between unfolded and folded, etc.). The
folding propeller blades 1800 shift between the first unfolded
position 1802 and the second folded position 1804 but the entire
propeller system can also be shifted.
[0165] As the folding propeller blades 1800 shift from the first
unfolded position 1802 (also referred to as a deployed position) to
the second folded position 1804 (also referred to as a folded
position) or vice versa, a stopping or blocking mechanism (e.g.,
blocks) can be used to lock the folding propeller blades 1800 in
place. In addition, the folding propeller blades 1800 can be
coupled to the propulsion pod using a pin to enable the rotation of
the folding propeller blades 1800 between positions.
[0166] When the throttle is activated or engaged (e.g., via a
throttle controller operated by the rider), the folding propeller
blades 1800 start spinning and a first force or centrifugal force
from the spinning outweighs a second force or force of the water on
the folding propeller blades 1800 thereby allowing the folding
propeller blades 1800 to deploy into the first unfolded position
1802. A first block is provided to stop the folding propeller
blades 1800 from opening further than predetermined (e.g., to
prevent damage) and the centrifugal force locks the folding
propeller blades 1800 into place at the first unfolded position
1802. When the throttle is released, the force of the water
outweighs the centrifugal force, and the folding propeller blades
1800 stops spinning which results in the folding propeller blades
1800 moving to the second folded position 1804 and being stopped
once again by another or second block. Each blade of the folding
propeller blades 1800 can rotate around a pin in an angled slot
that guides the blades into a feathered position as they fold into
the second folded position 1804.
[0167] The folding propeller blades 1800 can be used as a safety
feature, to stop the folding propeller blades 1800 from spinning
and then folding them into the second folded position 1804 when the
throttle is not activated or engaged, which removes danger to
riders and nearby swimmers. A folding propeller system in a folded
position on the dock also improves safety and prevents the
propeller system from being damaged (e.g., when there is no
propeller guard). A folding propeller system can be used in wave
riding where the rider may only occasionally want a power assist to
reach the next wave. When not in use, the folding propeller blades
1800 can fold into the second folded position 1804 or similar
folded positions to reduce drag and conserve battery.
[0168] The shifting of the various positions of the folding
propeller can be manually carried out by the rider (e.g., by
selecting an option on the display of the electronics unit within
the board or the display on the throttle controller) based on
operation requirements or can be automatically carried out by the
jetfoiler using sensors and feedback mechanisms (e.g., machine
learning mechanisms) and based on varying conditions. Therefore,
the folding propeller blades 1800 can represent movable control
surfaces (in addition to the adjustable flaps on the hydrofoil
wings) of the jetfoiler that can automatically control the
jetfoiler.
[0169] FIG. 19 illustrates an example of a hydrofoil 1900 of a
jetfoiler that includes a moveable control surface 1902 in
accordance with implementations of the present disclosure. The
hydrofoil 1900 comprises a strut 1904, a propulsion pod 1906
coupled to the strut 1904, a fuselage 1908 coupled to the strut
1904, an aft wing 1910 coupled to the fuselage 1908, a forward wing
1912 coupled to the fuselage 1908, and a propeller 1914 coupled to
the propulsion pod 1906. The aft wing 1910 includes a moveable
control surface 1902. The forward wing 1912 also includes a
moveable control surface 1902. Each moveable control surface 1902
can be a similar moveable control surface for both the aft wing
1910 and the forward wing 1912 or can be moveable control surfaces
of varying types, shapes, or mechanisms. Each moveable control
surface 1902 is operated using a pushrod mechanism (not shown) or a
similar type of mechanism. The pushrod mechanism actuates each
moveable control surface 1902 in response to feedback from any of a
variety of sensors (e.g., a mechanical trailing wand, a ride height
sensor) or in response to input from the operator (e.g., via the
throttle controller), or in response to input from an automatic
stabilization system (e.g., an IMU or a machine learning
mechanism).
[0170] A jetfoiler in accordance with the present disclosure can be
packed using a packaging material including but not limited to a
flexible piece of foam which is durable and waterproof (e.g.,
expanded polypropylene) to safely pack the unusual shape of the
jetfoiler. A C-shaped tube of foam can be cut to appropriate
lengths and wrapped around hydrofoil, propulsion pod, and board
components of the jetfoiler. Two pieces may be placed opposite each
other to protect a circular shape such as the propulsion pod and
can also be interchanged to provide easy storage of the packaging
material (i.e., the foam pieces are stacked inside each other for
storage or to ship the foam itself). The packaging can be used for
general purpose shipping of other objects that are unusually sized
and shaped.
[0171] A jetfoiler (e.g., the jetfoiler 100 of FIG. 1 or the
jetfoiler 900 of FIG. 9) in accordance with the present disclosure
can be operated using a variety of procedures or processes. In some
implementations, a user (i.e., operator/rider) of the jetfoiler can
get the jetfoiler ready for operation by first charging batteries
in a battery sled and setting up a camera (e.g., a POV camera)
within a propulsion pod of the jetfoiler. While the jetfoiler is on
its side, with a hydrofoil of the jetfoiler and a board of the
jetfoiler touching the ground or boat dock, the user can insert the
battery sled into the propulsion pod via an opening (e.g., a
forward opening). When pushed firmly or correctly into the
propulsion pod, the battery sled can indicate its engagement with
foil electronics by making a series of beeps or flashing lights.
These steps are executed in a dry area.
[0172] The user can insert the camera into a nose cone of the
propulsion pod if desired, by pulling a camera clip away from a
camera window of the nose cone and snapping the camera into place
behind the camera window. The user can reattach and lock the nose
cone to the propulsion pod and can place the jetfoiler into the
water with the hydrofoil going in first. The water should be deep
enough to avoid contact between the hydrofoil and any surface such
as rocks. The user can attach one end of a safety leash to his/her
body (via his/her ankle) and can attach the other end that includes
a magnet to the jetfoiler's fail/kill switch location.
[0173] The user can place his feet within footstraps (e.g., a back
foot within a back strap and a front foot with a front strap or
only one foot such as the back foot within a singular strap such as
the back strap). The user can stabilize on the board and push a
throttle controller of a throttle system gently to move clear of a
launching platform (e.g., a boat, a dock). The user can accelerate
by engaging the throttle controller. Once a forward speed of
approximately 8-10 knots is achieved, a user can lift up the front
foot and begin transitioning from non-foiling to foiling mode. The
user can shift his/her weight forward as needed during
transitioning into the foiling mode. The user can regulate speed by
engaging or releasing the throttle controller. To stop, the user
can ease completely off the throttle controller which transitions
the jetfoiler back to non-foiling or displacement mode. The user
fully releases the throttle controller and can glide back to the
launching platform when finished operating or riding the
jetfoiler.
[0174] In some implementations, when a throttle with a reverse
feature is used, the user may stop more quickly or precisely by
using the reverse feature to brake rather than gliding to a stop.
When an inflatable board is used instead of a rigid board, the user
can inflate the board before the ride and can attached the
inflatable board to the hydrofoil power system (e.g., the hydrofoil
power system 704 of FIG. 7A) using board-to-foil adapters. When the
jetfoiler is configured with a smart throttle, the smart throttle
limits power while the board is in contact with the water. After
the user shifts weight as needed to initiate foiling (i.e.,
post-transition from non-foiling mode to foiling mode), the foiling
can begin and a sensor can recognize the board as foiling thereby
releasing the previous power limit set by the smart throttle. When
a jetfoiler with a removable propulsion pod is used, the user can
remove and charge the entire propulsion pod instead of removing
just the batteries themselves from the propulsion pod.
[0175] In some implementations, when a folding propeller is used,
the user can use the throttle to accelerate to catch a wave which
can cause the folding propeller to deploy/unfold. When the user
surfs on a wave or swell, using the power of the wave to propel
forward, no motor assist is needed so the user can release the
throttle while surfing to feather or retract the folding propeller
to reduce drag. In the wave surfing mode, the folding propeller
does not have to spin. When the user engages the throttle again for
power assistance, the folding propeller can deploy. In an open
ocean, this method of using the jetfoiler can allow the rider to
cover a great distance while using less battery because the rider
catches large rolling waves. To stop, the user can ease off the
throttle and can transition back to non-foiling or displacement
mode. When the user releases the throttle completely, the folding
propeller can fold and the board glides to a stop.
[0176] A method and system in accordance with the present
disclosure provides a watercraft device with a hydrofoil and
electric-powered propeller. The watercraft device comprises a
board, a throttle coupled to a top surface of the board or coupled
wirelessly to the board, a hydrofoil coupled to a bottom surface of
the board, and an electric propeller system coupled to the
hydrofoil, wherein the electric propeller system powers the
watercraft device using information generated from the throttle. In
an implementation, the throttle can comprise an anchor point
coupled to the top surface of the board, a cable coupled to the
anchor point, and a throttle controller coupled to the cable,
wherein the information is generated when an operator of the
watercraft device engages the throttle controller. In another
implementation, the throttle can comprise a handlebar coupled to
the top surface of the board, wherein the handlebar is adjustable
to a plurality of positions, and a throttle controlled coupled to
the handlebar, wherein the information is generated when an
operator of the watercraft device engages the throttle controller,
further wherein the operator grips the handlebar for stability
during operation. In another implementation, the throttle can
comprise a wireless, handheld controller, which may also be
attached to the operator, attached to a throttle cable, or attached
to the handlebar.
[0177] The hydrofoil can comprise a strut coupled to the bottom
surface of the board, a propulsion pod coupled to the strut, and at
least two wings coupled to the propulsion pod. In some
implementations, the hydrofoil includes only one wing. When the
hydrofoil comprises the at least two wings, the at least two wings
generate lift when the watercraft device is powered by the electric
propeller system. The at least two wings can be coupled to a bottom
surface of the propulsion pod so that the propulsion pod is above
the at least two wings of the hydrofoil (i.e., the at least two
wings is not integrated into or with the propulsion pod). The at
least two wings can also be coupled to other areas of the
propulsion pod including but not limited to a middle section in
between the bottom surface and a top surface of the propulsion
pod.
[0178] The hydrofoil can further comprise a rudder coupled to any
of the strut and the propulsion pod (or another area of the
jetfoiler) and at least one adjustable flap coupled to the aft or
forward hydrofoil wings (or another area of the jetfoiler), which
can be movable control structures that provide a stability system
for the jetfoiler. The movable stability system automatically
stabilizes the watercraft device using any of an operating speed,
environmental conditions, jetfoiler ride height and pitch, and data
associated with the operator. The feedback loop fed by jetfoiler
ride height and pitch can include a plurality of sensors (e.g.,
IMU) and a plurality of algorithms (e.g., control system
algorithms). The plurality of sensors can analyze the control of
the jetfoiler and send associated data to the electronics unit that
processes the data using the plurality of algorithms leading to
adjustments in the movable control structures to stabilize the
jetfoiler.
[0179] For example, the feedback mechanism can detect that the
jetfoiler is too low and can automatically adjust the movable
control structures to raise the jetfoiler. The gain or
responsiveness of the control system can also be adjusted by the
operator (e.g., set using a display or phone link to jetfoiler).
The jetfoiler can include additional mechanisms (such as machine
learning algorithms) that optimize the riding of the jetfoiler
based on various detected conditions (e.g., detected using sensors
of the jetfoiler). The assistance level requested by the control
system may be based on the age, height, weight, stance, riding
style, riding history, and skill level of the operator. The
propulsion pod can comprise a nose cone that includes at least one
camera, a body housing coupled to the nose cone, and a heat sink
coupled to the body housing. The at least two wings can comprise an
aft wing coupled to an aft area of the propulsion pod or hydrofoil
fuselage, and a forward wing coupled to a forward area of the
propulsion pod or hydrofoil fuselage, wherein the forward wing is
larger than the aft wing. When the hydrofoil only includes one
wing, the one wing can be either the aft wing, the forward wing, or
a different type of wing located in a different location.
[0180] The electric propeller system can comprise a power system
that includes an electric motor, a battery that powers the electric
motor, and a propeller shaft driven by the electric motor, wherein
the power system is housed within the body housing of the
propulsion pod, and a propeller coupled to the power system via the
propeller shaft, wherein the power system controls the propeller
via the propeller shaft using the information generated by the
throttle controller. The electric propeller system can further
comprise a propeller guard coupled to the nose cone of the
propulsion pod, wherein the propeller guard is positioned around
the propeller.
[0181] The propeller can be a foldable propeller (or folding
propeller) with a plurality of blades, further wherein the foldable
propeller folds when the throttle controller is not engaged by the
operator and the plurality of blades stop spinning. The watercraft
device can further comprise an electronics unit housed within a
first well or second well of the board, wherein the electronics
unit receives the information from the throttle controller and
processes the information to provide at least one command. The at
least one command can be transmitted by the electronics unit to a
motor controller of the power system to control the motor, which
controls the propeller shaft, which controls the propeller.
[0182] The electronics unit can comprise a first microcontroller
that receives the information from the throttle controller,
processes the information to provide the at least one command, and
transmits the at least one command to the motor controller of the
power system, and a second microcontroller that logs additional
information associated with operation of the watercraft device. The
electronics unit can further comprise a display and a kill switch,
wherein the kill switch is tethered to the operator via at least
one footstrap or lanyard or leash for shutting down the watercraft
device when the operator detaches from the watercraft device. The
electronics unit receives the information from the throttle
controller using any of a wired connection and a wireless
connection.
[0183] A center of buoyancy in a non-foiling (or displacement) mode
and a center of lift in a foiling mode are aligned. The non-foiling
mode is when the board is in contact with a body of water during
take-off of the watercraft device and the foiling mode is when the
board is above a surface of the body of water during operation of
the watercraft device. The center of buoyancy in the non-foiling
mode and the center of lift in the foiling mode are aligned by
aligning a center of an upward force generated by a buoyancy of the
board when the jetfoiler is in the non-foiling mode with a center
of an upward force from a lift generated by the at least two wings
when the jetfoiler is in the foiling mode. The alignment can
include shaping the board with a predetermined design that provides
a center of buoyancy near or proximate or approximately close to a
certain area or position of the board (i.e., a board position) and
by positioning the hydrofoil that includes the at least two wings
beneath the board proximate to the board position. The at least one
footstrap that is coupled to the top surface of the board can also
be positioned relative to the board position provided by the
predetermined design of the board.
[0184] The board can comprise any of a carbon fiber material to
provide a lightweight solid platform, a foam material with layers
of fiberglass cloth and resin to provide a buoyant platform, a
drop-stitch fabric material to provide an inflatable platform, and
any combination thereof. The watercraft device can further include
at least one wheel coupled to the top surface of the board.
[0185] While the disclosed technology has been described in
connection with certain embodiments, it is to be understood that
the disclosed technology is not to be limited to the disclosed
embodiments but, on the contrary, is intended to cover various
modifications and equivalent arrangements included within the scope
of the appended claims, which scope is to be accorded the broadest
interpretation so as to encompass all such modifications and
equivalent structures as is permitted under the law.
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